A MASKED thief hurled a brick through the window of a watch shop in Hoole before stealing three timepieces.

Police officers were called to Watch Nation on Charles Street at around 4.50am on Saturday, February 2.

CCTV footage revealed the culprit had picked up a brick and thrown it at the shopfront earlier that morning at 3.40am.

A police spokesman said the man could then be seen taking three watches. He was wearing light-coloured jogging bottoms, trainers and a dark hoody, with his head and face covered.

Chester and District Standard:

The burglar stole three watches.

The shop’s owners have posted images from the CCTV on Facebook in a bid to help catch the burglar.

Gaynor Parry wrote: “The little s*** who robbed our shop this morning looks like a lovely lad on our CCTV footage. Pity he didn’t smile for the camera or we could have got a better selfie.

“Anyone hears of any HAMILTON watches please let us know.”

She added: “We’re an independent business, we’re not part of a chain. We employ the most amazing staff so now we’re angry! Someone will know who he is.”

Chester and District Standard:

The shop window is now boarded up - with a message to the thief.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number IML 310762. Alternatively people can contact officers via the website at https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries/

The shop has been approached for further details on the incident.