Bungling thieves used a “popular” new break-in method to steal an orange juicer from a Bedminster coffee shop – but dropped one of the parts.

A juicing machine worth around £1,000 was taken from Coffee#1 on North Street some time between 5.30pm on August 16 and 6.45am the next day.

The manager, who did not wish to be named, said: “Police said it has become a popular method around Bedminster.

“Someone comes in during opening hours and opens the top windows in a way that makes them look closed.

“They then come in after hours and let themselves in. It’s really easy to miss the windows, because they look closed.

“They were very sloppy, dropping one of the parts. I would never risk going to jail for a juicer.”

'It's silly'

She added that though the windows are small, the gap was big enough for someone to climb in.

“The windows face out onto the street, so I have no idea how it wasn’t seen – it must have been early hours,” the manager continued.

“I don’t know why they went for the juicer of all things. It’s silly. Maybe it’s because it was bright orange and visible.

“When I saw what happened I was scared more valuable things might have gone missing, but thankfully they only took the juicer, and they dropped one of the parts.

Coffee#1 on North Street, Bedminster

“Luckily we were insured. The police have done forensic investigations and been really helpful.”

Coffee#1 has been on North Street for three years, during which time there have been no other crime issues, the manager said.

She added: “It’s a really nice neighbourhood.

“Now we will have our windows bolted to make sure no one can get in.”

What police say

 

An Avon and Somerset police spokesman confirmed investigations are ongoing.

He said: “We would encourage everyone – householders and business premises owners – to ensure they take all precautions to ensure that their property is safe and secure.

“This may include use of CCTV and other preventative measures.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact us, quoting reference 5219189249.”

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