A CROOK stole money from shop tills as he went up to purchase a pot noodle during a series of robberies.

In separate incidents at Aldi store branches in Chelmsford, Pitsea and Wickford, the man grabbed cash from the tills as they were opened, before running off.

The first theft occured just after 6pm on November 14, in Pitsea, before similar cases in Wickford on November 17 at about 6.40pm, and in Chelmsford the following day, shortly before 3pm.

During each incident the thief took a three figure sum of money. Staff chased the culprit at Wickford, but he jumped into a car and fled the scene.

Security camera images have been released by police of a man believed to be the suspect in question, with officers believing the thefts are linked, due to the nature of the crime.

PC Alan Nock, the officer investigating the theft in Chelmsford, said: “In each case the man has selected a pot noodle, taken it to the checkout and grabbed a handful of notes when the till was opened.

“We’re certain the same man is involved because of the identical method and also because the descriptions and CCTV images are identical.

“We want to hear from anyone who can identify this man or knows where he lives. Also let us know if you have any information about the black car he left in from the scene of at least one of the thefts.”

The man is described as being about 5ft 9ins tall, aged in his mid-20s to mid-30s and had his hair tied back in what has been called a “greasy bun” style.

Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Nock at Chelmsford police station on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.