Get the Echo newsletter - it has never been more important to stay informed Sign me up now Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A Merseyside hospital was targeted by ram-raiding thieves in a bungled heist to steal from a cash machine from the building.

Merseyside Police confirmed that at around 3.15am, security at Aintree Hospital on Lower Lane reported a car had plowed into a rear door of the hospital.

The car, a black and blue Renault Scenic, was then used to take the ATM from the hospital building.

But after sustaining "extensive damage" in the incident the cash machine was dumped and the car made off from the scene.

A black BMW Sport and a blue Ford Fiesta were also involved in the incident, with the Ford Fiesta also abandoned in the grounds of the hospital.

The BMW drove off at speed, heading towards the East Lancs Road and police are now appealing for information.

Four men were spotted at the scene, all wearing face coverings and one of the men, also the driver of the BMW, was holding "what could have been a handgun".

Chief Inspector Kevin Chatterton said: “This was a failed attempt to ram the premises and steal the ATM machine, which is a reckless thing to do. Thankfully, this attempt was unsuccessful and caused no injuries.

"We take attempts like this seriously and we are determined to find those responsible and put them before the courts. The potential for serious injury and damage is clear, so help us remove these people from the streets.

“If you saw a black BMW making off at speed in the area in the early hours, or if you have dashcam which may have captured something, let us know. A black BMW vehicle may have appeared in your street this morning, which could be vital in our investigation. Let us know and we will take action on all information provided.”

Forensic and CCTV enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Merseyside Police confirmed no one was injured in the incident and no items were stolen.

Anyone with information can contact @MerpolCC, call 101 with reference 0172, or you can call @CrimestoppersUK anonymously on 0800 555 111.