Masked raiders were sent packing by a pair of female shop workers after breaking into a pharmacy.

Three men wearing balaclavas forced their way into Lloyds Pharmacy, in Burford Road, Carterton, at 1.40am today.

They headed straight to the perfume counter in the store and started stealing items from the counter.

But they were unaware two female employees were working late in the store.

When the gang was interrupted, they escaped empty-handed and got into a car, described as grey or silver.

Det Sgt Howard Berry said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen this car in the area at the time of the burglary and who might have seen the passengers in the car.

“The car drove out of the town in the direction of Gloucestershire, so if anyone saw the car heading that way then we would want to hear from them.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.