THE UK’s cash machine network, LINK, is offering rewards of up to £25,000 for information relating to cash machine theft.

This follows a burglary at Booths in Carnforth on January 19 / 20, in which an ATM machine was stolen overnight.

LINK is working with Crimestoppers, different police agencies and departments to support the police in their fight against crime, and to help inform the public about how they can protect themselves.

Senior LINK spokesman Graham Mott said: “We’re urging the public to come forward with any information that they may have about cash machine crime, for example card skimming or physical attacks on cash machines themselves.

"Even something that may sound insignificant could be part of a bigger picture and prove invaluable in convicting someone involved in cash machine crime.”

It is believed that two people are responsible for carrying out the Carnforth burglary, and they are known to have been in the Carnforth area from around 1am to 4.30am on the morning of the offence.

Detective Sergeant Mark Stephens, of Lancaster and Morecambe CID said: “It is possible that the offenders have been in the area prior to 1am and I would ask members of the public if they have seen any suspicious activity overnight 19th/20th January 2014 in Carnforth to contact police.

“The offenders were wearing hoodies with their faces covered, possibly with scarves. It is believed that they left the scene in a light coloured Volvo estate.

“If anyone has any information about this offence, it is requested that they contact Lancashire Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting log number LC-20140120-0143."

LINK is encouraging anyone with information about any cash machine crime to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Information can be given completely anonymously and there is no need for anyone to leave any personal information.

LINK has also made available video footage seized from criminals who had installed a hidden miniature camera at an ATM to film people entering their PIN. It highlights the importance of shielding the keypad when you enter your PIN. It can be viewed at www.link.co.uk or on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVq06dLW4kc