Sainsbury's in Perton was forced to close after its windows at the front of the store were smashed overnight between Sunday and Monday.

The store reopened on Monday afternoon onc the area had been made safe.

Police at Perton Sainsbury's after the stores windows were smashed overnight

Damage at Sainsbury's

A 37-year-old man from Perton has since been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

Police said it was an isolated incident and was not coronavirus-related, however the attack meant NHS workers were unable to use the shop during usual dedicated hour.

South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson has condemned the actions – calling it "callous and shocking".

A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage following an incident at a supermarket in Perton.

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Police at Perton Sainsbury's after the stores windows were smashed overnight

Workmen repairing the damage

"Officers were called to reports of a man smashing windows at the Sainsbury’s store in Anders Square at around 2.50am this morning.

"A man, who is from the local area, remains in custody.

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"This was an isolated incident and not related to any issues surrounding the Covid-19 outbreak."

Workmen repairing the damage

A spokesman for Sainsbury's added: "Our Sainsbury’s Perton store is temporarily closed following an incident.

"We are supporting the police with their investigation and working hard to reopen as soon as possible.”

Only last week, Staffordshire Police launched an investigation after the store's two cash machines were vandalised and smashed.

Mr Williamson said: "I am absolutely disgusted at hearing of this news and I am sure the whole Perton community would join me in condemning these actions.

"This is a callous and shocking crime at any time, but to do so during a pandemic is all the more awful.

"Hopefully the store can return to normal as soon as possible and continue to provide a great service for the residents of Perton."