POLICE are hunting a masked gang who stole a large number of shotguns in a late night raid at an industrial estate.

Armed police rushed to the Haigh Industrial Estate in Ross-on-Wye when the alarm went off at 2am on Monday, October 28.

The R&B Sporting gun store is based on the estate off Alton Road, and had just announced a celebration evening on November 20 to officially unveil the expansion of the store.

The estate was sealed off for several hours after the raid and access roads closed while police examined the crime scene, with workers turned away as they arrived to start their day.

Detective Inspector Rob Davies of West Mercia Police said: “At around 2am officers responded to calls of a reported burglary at a commercial premises on the Haigh Industrial Estate.

“The suspects stole a number of shotguns and it is suspected they may have had a vehicle parked nearby in order to make their escape.

“I would like to reassure the community that a thorough investigation is under way and we are reviewing a number of lines of enquiry.

“I would ask anyone who may have witnessed the burglary, seen anything suspicious in the area between 11pm and 3am or has any information that could help with our investigation to please call West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident number 038s of 28 October 2019.”

A force spokespeson said: “The alarm went off and it was all captured on CCTV but they were wearing masks.

“They made off with a whole lot of guns made by Beretta.”

The site is just off the A40 road linking Gloucester and Monmouth, and within a mile of the start of the M50 motorway.

Information can also be provided anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

R&B Sporting had just announced its celebration night after doubling the size of its floorspace.

A post on its Facebook page put up the week before the burglary said: “Dedicated new displays show off the very best that each of the leading shotgun and rifle and air rifle suppliers have to offer, with representatives from each of them here on the night.

“Leading optic brands including Swarovski Optik and Hawke will be there to demonstrate the latest kit and give expert advice."