A CASH machine stolen from a Manchester city centre shop was found 'dumped and smashed up' in Whitefield.

The 'free standing' machine was discovered at the rear of Spar in Ribble Drive, this morning.

Police confirmed the cash machine was stolen during a burglary at a Mace convenience store in Blantyre Street, Manchester, at 7.30am.

Sergeant Richard Garland, of GMP’s Bury Borough, said: "A staff member from one of the shops in Ribble Drive, reported that the cash machine was found smashed up in some bushes.

"It was a free standing cash machine as you find in many shops and businesses, which was stolen from a city centre shop.

"They have obviously broken in, stolen the machine, smashed it up and dumped it in Whitefield.

"It is now in our possession."

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.