AN investigation has been launched after two Co-Op stores in Halesowen were hit by break-ins.

The Co-Op on Hagley Road was targeted at around 4am on Thursday (January 23).

Offenders tried but failed to get into the shop and left empty handed, a force spokesperson said.

A second Co-Op store on Bassnage Road was burgled a short time later, and alcohol was stolen.

Police believe the two incidents to be linked and have called for anyone with information to get in touch.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: "Police were called to an attempted burglary at Co-op, Hagley Road, Halesowen, just after 4am yesterday (Thursday).

"Offenders failed to gain access to the shop and fled empty-handed.

"There was a break-in at a Co-op in Bassnage Road, Halesowen, not long afterwards and alcohol was taken.

"These are believed to be linked and anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk, or by calling 101. Quote crime reference number 20DY/19585Z/20."