A children’s play centre is closed today after thieves broke in overnight, smashing up the building and stealing thousands of pounds.

Tiny Town in Sheldon Way, Larkfield, owned by Felipe Alviar-Baquero, a former contestant on BBC show The Apprentice, lost takings from Friday and other cash totalling between £3,000 and £5,000.

The thugs smashed a window to get in and trashed the office, tipping out cupboards and drawers as they searched for more things to steal.

Luckily the play area was untouched but after discussions with police, staff decided to remain closed today while officers investigated.

An emotional Mr Alviar-Baquero, who has run the indoor play centre with mum Pat and wife Jennifer for six years, admitted he was close to crying when he heard the news this morning.

He said: “It brought tears to my eyes when I was told about the break-in. It’s extremely sad.

“This centre is for the community. Why would somebody do this? This is where kids come to have fun.”

Mr Alviar-Baquero said the burglars also went into a clinic within the centre where disabled children have occupational therapy and physiotherapy.

He is now appealing for the public’s help in catching the culprits.

He said: “They took the CCTV so we can’t see anything. There are lots of buildings around here so perhaps one of them has CCTV that captured something.

“The alarm was sounding since 4am so someone may have heard something or seen something. We would really like someone to help us with some information.

“We will offer a lifetime membership to anyone who gives details to police that lead to a conviction.”

The owner said between 30 and 40 children visit the indoor centre on a normal week, more when the weather is bad.

They offer activities for 0 to nine-year-olds, including football matches and parties and themed soft play areas.

A police spokesman said: “Kent Police was called at 8.10am to reports of a burglary at a premises in Sheldon Way. It is reported that a quantity of cash was stolen. Enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information should call 01622 604100 quoting reference 13-0224 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.