A stolen van was smashed into a Co-op in an attempt to steal a cash machine.

Police were alerted to the incident on Main Street in Thornton, Fife, at around 2.15am on Wednesday.

A silver Ford Transit flatbed van was deliberately reversed into the Co-op, smashing through glass.

A man failed to steal a cash machine before running away from the store.

The vehicle was stolen from an area nearby.

Detective inspector Paul Dick from Glenrothes CID said: "While this has been an unsuccessful attempt to steal the ATM, it has caused considerable damage to the building, which will require to be checked to see if it is structurally sound.

"This is a serious and brazen crime, which will have an impact on the entire community of Thornton and will unfortunately cause disruption to local businesses and members of the public whilst we carry out a detailed examination of the scene."

He added: "As part of this investigation we have established that the vehicle involved had previously been stolen from Station Road, Thornton which is a short distance away from the shop.

"I am keen to hear from anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Thornton area during Tuesday evening or the early hours of Wednesday morning.

"It is also believed that the people involved left the area in another unidentified vehicle.

"Anyone with any further information relevant to this inquiry, or who can help us identify the persons involved should also contact police immediately."

Those with information can contact the police on 101.