THOUSANDS of pounds of toys have been stolen from a supermarket in Basildon, prompting a police appeal. 

Essex Police have launched an investigation after Lego was taken from Sainsbury's at Cricketers Retail Park at about midday on January 17.

CCTV images have now been published by police of a man who the force wants to speak to in connection with the theft. 

A spokesman for the police said: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"Please quote the crime reference number 42/9816/23.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.

"Visit essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"Alternatively you can call us on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."