A CUSTOMER has complained of a 'rancid' smell at Tesco after an ATM raid.

Burglars tried and failed to steal the cash machine outside the Kidlington High Street store on Monday, causing major damage.

Police have not confirmed the method attempted but firefighters responded and the remnants of the ATM appeared burnt.

Several people have since been in touch with the Oxford Mail describing a strong smell of burning inside the branch.

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One shopper, who asked not to be named, said it was 'sickening'.

She said she had to abandon her shop and rush outside for fresh air due to the 'rancid intensity' of the scent.

She added: "[There] is obvious lack of consideration apparent from the store's lack of posting any caution notice at the entrance, in order that customers can either prepare themselves or make an informed decision about going elsewhere."

Another Oxford Mail reader said: "There's a ghastly burnt smell throughout the whole store."

Tesco has apologised and staff are working to resolve the smell.

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A spokesperson for the supermarket said: "Our Kidlington Metro is welcoming customers as normal.

"We’re aware of a smell at the front of the store which is related to a recent burglary attempt.

"We’re working to solve the problem by removing the damaged ATM machine as quickly as possible.

"We apologise for any inconvenience to customers."

A previous statement said staff hope to have the ATM back in service 'as soon as possible' and that Tesco is 'actively supporting' the police investigation.

The burglary happened at about 4.50am on Monday and the shop was cordoned off until that afternoon.