Would-be thieves got away empty handed after ramming their 4x4 vehicle into doors at a hospital in attempts to steal a cash machine inside.

The attempt was made early yesterday morning at Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford.

Police say they were called out to the hospital in Darenth Wood Road, shortly before 7am after a vehicle was driven into doors in an attempt to remove the cash machine.

However despite the vehicle damaging the doors and accessing the area, the thieves were unable to get cash machine out and left empty handed.

It is understood the damaged caused to the building prevented the canteen from serving hot meals to staff and visitors yesterday.

The police helicopter was also scrambled in attempts to locate the 4x4 vehicle and the thieves, but the offenders have not yet been located.

A spokesman for the force, said: “Kent Police was called at 6.50am to reports of an burglary at Darent Valley Hospital.

“Doors had been forced to an area housing a cash machine and it is believed a vehicle was used to access the area during unsuccessful attempts to remove the machine.

“A police helicopter assisted a search of the surrounding area for the offenders, who remain outstanding.

“Forensic checks at the scene have also been carried out and enquires are ongoing.”

Anyone with information can call Kent Police on 01474 366 149, quoting reference XY/059229/17, Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.