THE "demoralising" effect of constantly dealing with crime has been highlighted by a local business manager in the wake of a break-in last weekend.

Greens of Tillicoultry was targeted by three individuals at around 2.30am on Sunday, December 29.

The glass door of the Hill Street shop was smashed open, and a safe containing a five-figure sum of cash was stolen.

The perpetrators then made off in the direction of High Street/Dollar Road.

Police are now investigating the incident, and Greens has offered a £1,000 reward for anyone with information leading to the arrest of those responsible.

But the company's area manager, Fraser Rolley, has also chosen to speak out about the wider impact such incidents have had on the relatively new business.

He told the Advertiser: "This is the third time the store has been targeted in 14 months, with several other failed break-in attempts over the same period.

"Whilst we are pleased the store has now reopened, the lasting impact any crime has on local businesses is enormously significant, with an impact on colleagues who attend the scene, local suppliers, valued customers and indeed the viability of businesses themselves.

"We are demoralised by the repeated incidents we are having to deal with.

"With Greens having launched in Tillicoultry in 2016, our vision has been to introduce a leading offering to the wonderful local community.

"Due to the actions of a handful of individuals, it has been a constant firefight from tackling shopfloor theft to these more significant issues.

"We have been overwhelmed with the positive support of the community and customers, though we need to work together to root out issues like this within our local area.

"Having opened various stores in the last five and a half years, it is the first time we are, unfortunately, having to take such significant precautions such as installing shutters and ramping up security measures – investment that otherwise could be used within the local communities in which we operate."

Fraser also appealed for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

He said: "One of the individuals was wearing all white attire including a scarf and another individual was wearing light trousers, a hoodie, balaclava and distinctive trainers with a v-shape contrast colour.

"If you recognise either of the individuals in the photos, have seen any suspicious activity or anybody you know who has come across a substantial amount of money please do contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident reference PS-20191229-0502.

"[Alternatively] call Crimestoppers confidentially, or send us an anonymous message on the Greens of Tillicoultry Facebook page."