ROBBERS trashed a train station ticket machine during the early hours in Mistley.

The machine at Mistley Train Station was vandalised and cash was also taken.

The incident has raised concerns following other bouts of vandalism in and around the town.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I encountered the machine in a boarded-up state when I came to buy my ticket.

“Hopefully there was camera footage but even then it could be futile because they might have been wearing balaclavas.”

The police were contacted and are currently in the process of searching for the culprits.

A spokeswoman for Greater Anglia said: “We are aware that, unfortunately and frustratingly, the ticket machine at Mistley station has been vandalised.

“The British Transport Police are aware and are reviewing CCTV footage.

“We are working to repair the machine as soon we can, but in the meantime customers can buy tickets via the Greater Anglia app or our website.”

A spokeswoman for The British Transport Police added: “Officers received a report of damage to a ticket machine at Mistley station which is believed to have taken place in the early hours of February 11.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”