Three men have been branded “Britain’s thickest thieves” after breaking into a building riddled with asbestos.

The trio, who have now undergone decontamination, forced their way into the deserted post office in Ship Street, Brighton, at 1.30pm yesterday, ignoring health and safety signs warning them about the danger.

Police were called and themen were arrested but before they could be interviewed they had to be decontaminated to ensure asbestos particles were removed.

Traders condemned the thieves as fools, with Stuart Wilkie, of Brighton Lanes Traders stating: “Are these Britain’s thickest thieves?

“It is ludicrous. Going into the decontamination unit serves them right. It is poetic justice."

For the full story see today's Argus.