Gang of ram-raiders target three shops in Lanarkshire in dawn break-ins

The dark coloured Land Rover Discovery car was first used at around 1.50am.

Police say the car was used to break into the Spar Shop, The Cross, Stonehouse.

The thieves did gain access but were unable to remove the ATM machine.

An hour later at 2.50am, the car was used to gain access to Westwood Stores in Leeward Circle, East Kilbride.

The suspects managed to gain access but were unable to remove the ATM machine from this premises.

The third incident occurred around 3.10am when the car was used to crash into the shutters of the Pennysave Store in Udston Road, Hamilton.

This attempt proved successful and the thieves managed to steal an ATM machine.

Police Scotland say their officers are in the process of collecting CCTV images from where the incidents occurred and the routes the car may have taken.

Anyone who may have seen the vehicle, which was damaged at the rear, is being urged to contact police.

The Land Rover Discovery was recovered shortly after in Stoneymeadow Road, Blantyre.

Police say it had been set on fire and it will undergo a full forensic examination.

Detective Inspector David Cockburn said: “Our enquiries carried out so far have revealed two men were in the car and both were wearing dark coloured clothing.

"The car sustained damage to its rear and a tail light was smashed out so I’m appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle to contact us, perhaps you remember seeing the car damaged and the light out.

"The car is now undergoing a full examination by forensic officers and detectives will continue to carry out door-to-door enquiries as part of the ongoing investigation.

"If anyone has any information or knowledge about the suspects, any of the incidents, or the car then please do contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call CID officers at Hamilton Police Office via 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 were information can be given anonymously.