More than a million pounds' worth of mobile phones and games consoles were nicked from a lorry parked outside a Carphone Warehouse store near Birmingham early on Monday morning.

Thieves got away with more than 7,000 Nokia mobile phones - including 6310is, 5100s and 3410s - with a trade value £781,000 ($1.25 million).

A Nokia spokesman told us: "A vehicle belonging to a secure delivery company was robbed on the morning of the 11 August while on route to the Carphone Warehouse.

"We can confirm that there were goods belonging to Nokia and other companies on this vehicle. While police continue with their inquiries we cannot give any further details at this stage," he said.

Police have confirmed that all the phones have been disabled and warned anyone offered a cheap mobile to be on their guard.

Officers are currently investigating the crime and have urged anyone with any information to come forward.

DI Carl Southwick from West Bromwich police said: "Police want to trace a white man aged in his early 30s, 5' 8'' with blond hair, clean shaven and with a beer belly, wearing a light grey hooded top - he was seen near to the lorry when it was stolen."

A "substantial" reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. ®