Queen's jewellers targeted by smash-and-grab raiders

Jewellery was snatched from displays at Mappin & Webb at the junction of Old Bond Street and Piccadilly in London's West End.

Witnesses told police several men on motorcycles raced up to the shop and smashed windows with heavy tools before escaping.

Branches of Mappin & Webb have proved a popular target for smash-and-grab gangs.

The Regent Street store was raided at least three times in 2008.

In 2006 two teenagers were jailed after stealing goods worth about 26,000 from Mappin & Webb in Fenchurch Street.

The business holds two royal warrants and acts as silversmith to the Queen and Prince Charles.