POLICE have issued a security alert after Harry Tuffins became the latest shop to be broken into by a gang targeting the area.

On Monday a gang believed to be responsible for a spate of burglaries in the Forest attacked the Coleford store.

They threw two rocks through the window before stripping the shelves of alcohol.

It is believed to be the same thieves had previously stolen cigarettes and perfume from chemists and shops in Lydney and Coleford.

It is unclear if they are also responsible for shed break-ins in Drybrook, Mitcheldean and Tutshill in which several thousand pounds worth of power tools, bikes and garden equipment were taken.

Police say 33 businesses, sheds and shops were broken into during September 2012, compared to 26 for the same period last year, showing a rise of more than 26 per cent.

Sgt Carl Bourne said: "These break-ins are concerning and in each case officers have been reviewing CCTV and forensic opportunities as well as making local inquiries.

"Obviously we are looking into whether any of the cases are linked.

"While crime is generally very low in the Forest this is perhaps a good time for local companies and residents to review their security."