The offenders broke in to the salesroom at Shukers in Hereford Road, Bayston Hill and stole various vehicle keys, before using a large 4×4 vehicle from the forecourt to force the gates open at about 3.15am on Tuesday 19 July 2011.

They then dumped the damaged 4×4 at the kerbside and made off with a high-powered red Subaru Impreza WRX STI, registration DG60 HZW.

Police Constable Jason Tierney, who is investigating the incident, said up to four men are believed to have been involved, who were wearing dark clothing and had their faces covered.

“The offenders are believed to have arrived at the scene in a dark-coloured car, possibly a coupe, and were seen hanging around outside the nearby bakery shortly before the incident.

“The stolen Subaru was spotted between junctions two and three of the M54 at about 4.10am and again at about 4.25am on the A41 near Weston Under Lizard, when we believe the offenders were trying to find a fuel station as the car had hardly any petrol in it when stolen.”

About 20 minutes later, dark blue BMW with blacked out windows as also seen in the same area driving at speed towards the West Midlands, having come from the direction of Wheaton Aston, although it is not known at this stage whether the vehicle was involved.

PC Tierney added: “Further enquiries this morning suggest the offenders eventually stopped and filled up the Subaru at the BP fuel station on the A449 at Fordhouses, Wolverhampton, just off the M54. Enquiries are being made there in relation to CCTV.

“They made a lot of noise while stealing the vehicle and I am keen to hear from anyone in the Bayston Hill area who might have seen or heard something they think could be connected.

“Anyone who saw the Subaru being driven or knows of its whereabouts now is also urged to contact police on 0300 333 3000.”

Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where a reward is sometimes offered.