A SUPERMARKET was targeted by thieves during a late night raid.

Officers are investigating a break-in at Tesco Express, on Coxford Road, Lordswood, after it is believed thieves gained access through the store’s ceiling.

Hampshire Constabulary has reported that the former Woodman pub turned convenience store was burgled between 8.40pm on Thursday and in the early hours of Friday.

A spokesperson said that nothing had been reported as stolen and enquiries into the incident remain ongoing.

The store closed its doors early on Friday as the snow battered every inch of Southampton.

Eyewitnesses told the Daily Echo that customers queued in the hazardous conditions waiting for the shop to open, unaware of the break-in.

One man, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Apparently they got into the flat above the store and tried to get through the ceiling.

“There was some damage and the store was closed while debris was cleared up. There was a sign on the door saying ‘closed until further notice’.”

He added: “The store was reopened just after midday but a queue of shoppers had been waiting in the snow to top up with essential supplies.”

The incident comes within days of an attempted robbery to another nearby convenience store.

Last week, three men armed with crow bars tried to rob Aldermoor Convenience Store, on Aldermoor Road.

However, the store’s quick-thinking shopkeeper managed to chase off the masked thugs by using a paintball gun.

A Tesco spokesperson: “We can confirm that an attempted burglary took place last night at our Lordswood Road Express store and we are currently assisting the police with their investigations.

“We are sorry for any inconvenience caused to our customers while the store was temporarily closed.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote 44180080283.