Two men have been remanded in custody after being charged with offences connected with so-called “ram raids” at shops in Radstock and Frome.

The overnight burglaries happened between 24th and 26th November and involved cigarettes, tobacco and sometimes alcohol being taken from supermarkets and convenience stores after a car was reversed into them to gain entry.

Clive Kemery, 35, of no fixed abode, appeared at South Somerset Magistrates’ Court on 3rd December to face charges including burglaries at the Spar in Rodden Road and Co-op in Nunney Road, Frome, as well as theft of a VW Golf in Frome and aggravated vehicle taking.

Simon Norris, 47, of Culverhill, Frome, is charged with the same offences plus an attempted burglary at the Co-op in Radstock. He appeared before Taunton Dean Magistrates’ Court on 4th December.

Both men were remanded in custody to appear before Taunton Crown Court on 4th January 2022.

The charges follow an investigation by a team of officers focused on tackling burglary.