Police believe the gang has stolen from the Rams Walk supermarket before, as well as from shops elsewhere. Police Constable David Tester said: "We are investigating an almost identical theft at Waitrose in December using distraction techniques. We are asking outlets to be vigilant and to challenge anyone behaving suspiciously near high value goods, and to monitor self pay tills robustly."

Police would like to speak to three men in Waitrose between 5.20pm and 5.30pm on Wednesday, January 15. All were slim, in their late 20s to early 30s and between 5ft 10ins and 6ft 2ins tall.

One had short dark hair with sideburns and was wearing a grey button up hooded top, jeans and trainers.

Another was in a light brown bodywarmer and black jumper, grey bobble hat, light grey trousers, white and black trainers and was unshaven.

The last had short dark receeding hair with sideburns, a light grey jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.

Witnesses can contact PC Tester on 101 or or call Crimestoppers on 0800555111. Minicom users can call 01962 875000.