THEIVES broke into a destroyed library over night to steal cash.

East Tilbury Library, in Princess Avenue, was broken into during the night between Friday January 13 and Saturday January 14.

Just days before firefighters rushed to battle a blaze at the library after a car was reversed into the building and set alight.

Two crews from Grays and one crew from Orsett were called to a fire in the library at 4.20am on Friday January 6.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Between 10.30am on Friday January 13 and 11.30am on Saturday January 14, the East Tilbury Library, Princess Avenue, Tilbury was burgled.

“The property was boarded up and not in use at the time of the incident. It is believed the suspect gained entry by forcing open the boarding and once inside the tills were also forced open. Cash was stolen but the amount taken is unknown.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex Police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Sue Macpherson councillor for neighbourhoods said: "Not everything can be moved yet; access to the building remains difficult until remedial works can take place to ensure visitors to the building are safe.

"The structural engineer visited the library last week and after their report is shared, we can expect the works to start.

"I encourage everybody to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police."