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Ram-raid on Horton Kirby Co-operative store in early-hours attack just four days after opening

A shop in South Darenth has been targeted by ram-raiders this morning - just four days after it opened.

Police believe a car was used to ram the entrance to the Co-operative store, in the old Horton Kirby paper mill, before the offenders fled.

Officers later stopped two vehicles and arrested two men in connection with the incident at the Esparto Way store at about 4.30am.

Police at the Co-Op store in Horton Kirby. Picture: Rosie Martin
Police at the Co-Op store in Horton Kirby. Picture: Rosie Martin

A Kent Police spokesman said both men remain in custody and it is unclear if anything has been stolen.

The store was closed this morning after the raid.

A Co-operative spokesman said: "At around 4.15am on Monday there was an attempt to raid our new store.

"The store was closed at the time and nothing was taken.

"The store is currently closed due to the damage caused, and it is anticipated it will re-open at around midday today.

"We apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused.

"CCTV has been given to the police and, as with any incident such as this, we would appeal for anyone with information to come forward."

Store manager Rebecca Tormey opening the store with pupils from Horton Kirby Church of England Primary School
Store manager Rebecca Tormey opening the store with pupils from Horton Kirby Church of England Primary School

The supermarket was opened with the help of pupils from Horton Kirby Church of England Primary School on Thursday after a £450,000 investment and the creation of 20 new jobs.

School children cut the ribbon with a pair of giant scissors to open the store with manager Rebecca Tormey.

On the day, she said: "We are thrilled to open the doors of our new store in Horton Kirby and as a community retailer we are looking forward to playing a real role in local life."

The school will also receive a £200 donation for their help on the day.

The Co-operative Food store is situated in the old Horton Kirby Paper Mill and the official address is listed as Horton Kirby, despite it being in the village of South Darenth.

The Mill was founded at the beginning of the 19th century, when Horton Kirby and South Darenth were known as Horton Kirby Parish.

The address confusion is also why Horton Kirby Fire Station was named as such, despite also being in South Darenth.

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