VIDEO: Explosion as raiders target HSBC Bank cashpoint

The incident happened shortly after 2.30am at the Delta Office Park branch, the explosion triggered the bank's alarm system and police were on the scene within minutes.

It is believed the thieves were in the process of pumping gas into the machine in an effort to blow the back door off when the blast happened.

Detective Sergeant Gareth Kitchener said: "The explosion was caused due to a build-up of excess gas in the top compartment of the ATM.   

“This was not only dangerous, putting the lives of the offender(s) and anyone close by at risk, it was also fruitless - as it didn't work because they fled empty handed." 

A spokesperson for HSBC said: "We're aware of the situation and our branch is currently closed while police carry out their investigation. 

"We will aim to reopen as soon as possible."

Gas explosions at ATMs have become more common in recent years, with thieves exploiting a weakness in the rear door of the machines to carry out the attacks.

By pumping gas through the cash withdrawal slot, they increase the pressure to such an extent that, in theory, the main door inside the branch will be blown open to reveal the money.

It is not yet clear how far into the act the thieves had got before the explosion in this instance.

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said earlier: "Wiltshire Police attended an incident at the HSBC Bank on the Delta Office Park, West Swindon, in the early hours of this morning.

"We received the call at 2.36am after an alarm was activated. 

"Unknown offender(s) had placed gas canisters next to the ATM.  One of the canisters had gone off causing some fire damage to the ATM.

"The fire brigade were also in attendance.  The area was made safe by the fire brigade and our officers.

"Our enquiries are on-going; if anyone saw or heard anything suspicious in this area around this time please contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

The force of the blast destroyed the front of the cash machine, melting some of its enclosure.

It also caused significant damage inside the branch. 

Two of the reinforced windows in the main door were blown inwards and fire damage can be seen above and around the cash machine itself.

The area around the branch was sealed off this morning, with scenes of crime officers gathering forensic evidence.

The one-stop convenience store next to the bank was open as usual this morning but the Tigers Day Nursery above was closed until midday.

Nursery operations manager Jane Tubb said: "The fire service came back this morning and used a gas meter to check it all over.

"They used a neutraliser spray and gave it the all clear.

"There was a smell of burning and a bit of a film on surfaces so we closed this morning to give everything a good clean before re-opening at midday."

A spokesperson for the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called by the police at 2.40am. Two crews from Swindon and one from Westlea responded.

"When they arrived the cashpoint was well alight and there was heavy smoke logging within the branch.

"Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus went in to the building and two hose reel jets were used to damp everything down.

"Ventilation fans were used to make sure all the smoke had been cleared from the children's nursery upstairs.

"One crew from Swindon stayed until on scene until 5.10am."

The HSBC Bank at Delta Office Park today. Pictures by Chris Humphreys