A BURGLARY suspect was chased down by cops after a Clacton jewellery store was raided in an early-morning heist.

Ava Jewels, in Jackson Road, was targeted by burglars under the cover of darkness early on Thursday morning.

The crooks bent back the metal security grill which covers the store’s doors and windows.

They made a gap large enough to smash the glass panel in the front door and force their way inside.

A tray of wedding rings and watches was stolen, along with two trays of earrings, while the shop was ransacked by the culprits as they searched for valuables.

The burglary happened at about 1.50am on Thursday.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

When the glass was smashed it set off the store’s security alarm, which is linked through the door and windows.

It instantly alerted the owners and police.

A police spokesman said officers reached the scene within seconds of the burglary.

They chased a suspect on foot towards the seafront and the 22 year-old man was caught and arrested on suspicion of burglary in Marine Parade West.

Officers are still looking for a second suspect, described as a white man with facial hair and black framed glasses, wearing dark clothing and a hooded top with white lines on and white trainers.

The stolen valuables have not yet been recovered.

Owners said the shop was left with smashed cabinets and glass all over the floor.

Forensic officers carried out investigations at the shop on Thursday morning, searching for DNA evidence before the owners were allowed inside to start their clean-up.

The shop was closed through the day while the messed was cleared, cabinets were replaced and new secure doors were installed.

Anyone with information should contact Clacton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.