Police appeal after two caught contaminating food in Lancashire supermarket

POLICE are appealing for information after two people walked in to a supermarket and contaminated food by smearing their hands all over it.

The pair went into the Sainsbury’s store before licking their hands and wiping them over meat, fresh produce and fridge handles.

The store was thoroughly disinfected and the store was forced to destroy the produce.

Police have today released CCTV footage of the offenders in a bid to identify them.

Police want to identify these men

The incident happened at about 1.45pm on April 4 at the Sainsbury's store on Lancaster Road in Morecambe.

One man is described as being in his early 20s, white, with black hair, some facial hair, wearing a black jacket, black tracksuit bottoms and grey trainers.

The other man is also described as being in his early 20s, white, with dark hair, facial hair, and wearing a black jacket, white hoody, black tracksuit bottoms and hiking boots.

Police want to identify these men

Insp James Martin, of West Police, said: “That anyone could think this sort of behaviour is appropriate or amusing even in normal times is beyond me but at this time of crisis when many people have been faced with empty shelves in some shops is flabbergasting.

"It is utterly despicable and I would appeal for anyone who knows who these people are to get in touch.

“I would also urge the individuals involved to do the right thing and come forward to speak to us – you must surely know that what you have done is wrong.

“During this current time we have seen many examples of people displaying the very best of humanity.

"This pair are sadly displaying some of the worst.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log number 0693 of April 4.