Police were called at 12.12pm today to a pawn shop in Watford after it was reported two offenders had smashed a cabinet and taken jewellery.

Officers, including the dog unit, attended the incident at Cash & Cheque Express in St Albans Road, and were supported by a police helicopter.

Kris Baldwin, head of operations at Cash & Cheque Express, who was also at the scene, said: “I can’t say much about the incident that’s happened here today because it’s obviously just happened and the police are currently investigating.

“All I can say at present is that police were here within a few minutes and have been absolutely fantastic with their support.

“All statements have been taken, and there have been eye witnesses to the incident from the public, so we’d like to thank them also.

“Obviously we’re hoping for a successful outcome.

“It’s not a great situation but we certainly hope to catch the perpetrators very soon and that they’re prosecuted.”

Any witnesses should call Herts Police on 101.