Man arrested as fragrances stolen after car ploughs into store

A 42-year-old man has been arrested after a car ploughed into Clarendon Square Shopping Centre in Hyde and a number of stolen fragrances were later recovered from an abandoned vehicle.

It happened in the early hours of Friday morning (27 November), at around 12.40am. 

Police believe the people responsible drove a white Ford KA into the mall in the town centre to gain access to the building, before eventually fleeing in a white Fiat Punto. 

The Fiat Punto was then later discovered - abandoned - on Church View in Hyde and a quantity of perfume goods were recovered from the vehicle.

A short while later, a Fiat 500 was sighted travelling along Bridestowe Avenue and officers from GMP's Tactical Vehicle Interception Unit became engaged in a pursuit which ended on Hattersley Road East.

A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and remains in police custody for questioning.  

Police say three other men fled the scene and enquiries remain ongoing. 

They are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. 

Sergeant Peter Goddard of GMP's Tameside District Volume Crime Unit, said: "Thankfully no injuries have been reported following this burglary and our officers are doing all they can to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. 

"Thanks to the diligence of our TVIU officers we have one man in custody; however, our investigation remains ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. I'd urge anyone who has any information about this incident to make contact with police as it could aid our enquiries." 

Clarendon Square was closed this morning and taped off whilst police responded. The indoor market hall remained open, with customers instead asked to use the trade entrance on Reynold Street. 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 9361, quoting incident number 33 of 27/11/20. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Main image:

Damage to the building at Clarendon Square Shopping Centre. Photo credit: Darren Graham.