CCTV has been released showing bungling thieves smashing through a restaurant before fleeing empty handed.

The botched break-in happened at Cafe Tartine on Commercial Street in Edinburgh at 12.05am on Wednesday.

The footage shows three men smashing down the front door of the French eatery before breaking into the office after several attempts.

But the thieves are forced to scamper after hearing the alarm, leaving empty handed.

Cafe Tartine owner Michael Graham said the damage will cost him more than £1000.

He said: "They are young lads who clearly knew where the office was. They must have spied it out before.

"I woke up at 12.05am and when I opened the CCTV from my phone I saw we had been broken into.

"Within a minute, the police were in the building.

"I can see it's three young lads who didn't know what they were doing and are simply opportunists."

Mr Graham said the gang panicked when they heard the alarm.

"They are clearly amateurs at this," said Mr Graham.

"It took 25 seconds for the main alarm to sound after they smashed down the front door.

"It's clear they panic once it sounds.

"I'm angry. You don't want these things to happen whatsoever. I just hope the guys never attempt it again.

"Not even a bottle of Southern Comfort or spirits was smashed and the till system wasn't stolen so I'm glad at that.

"We are still open today and I'm grateful for all the support we have had from people on social media."