A CASH machine at a petrol station caught fire after being badly damaged during an early morning raid.

The incident happened at the Tesco Express store and neighbouring Esso petrol station on Thornton Road shortly before 1am today.

Police are now scouring CCTV to identify those responsible for the incident, and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

A fire crew from Fairweather Green were called to the Leaventhorpe Service Station after a report of a fire at the petrol station.

When they arrived they found what was left of the cash machine was on fire.

The small brick building housing the cash machine was also damaged.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: “Police were called at 12.59am today to a report of suspects causing damage to a cash machine at the Leaventhorpe Service Station in Thornton Road, Bradford.

“Enquiries are at an early stage and are continuing today and anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area is asked to contact Bradford District CID on 101, quoting crime reference 13180272636, or use the ‘Contact Us’ options on the West Yorkshire Police website.

“Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

The Tesco store shuts at midnight, although the cash machine can be accessed 24/7.

A Tesco spokesperson said: “Following an incident at our Thornton Road Express store today we are supporting police with their enquires”.

Both the store and the petrol station were open as usual this morning, although the ATM area was covered.

Councillor Sue Duffy (Lab, Thornton and Allerton) told the Telegraph & Argus she had spoken to police after the incident, adding: "We're obviously really concerned about criminal activity of any sort in the area.

"This attempt to rob a cash machine has resulted in a small fire.

"Our main concern was whether anyone was injured. Police have informed us that nobody was injured, and that CID was looking into who the perpetrators were. They are confident they'll get them. I understand there is CCTV that they are looking at.

"Obviously the fact that it is a petrol station and there was a fire is very concerning.

"From what I understand the fire started after someone tried to break into the ATM.

"I'm confident that the CID are onto this and will get who is responsible."