A Poundland store was placed in lockdown after two teenagers stopped on suspicion of shoplifting reacted aggressively.

The incident happened at a branch of the budget retailer in St George's Street, Canterbury, this afternoon.

Pictures shared with KentOnline show a shop security worker, resplendent with a Santa hat, pinning a person to the floor and the store in disarray.

A Poundland spokesman confirmed the team had to lock the doors for a short period of time.

They added: "Two suspected shoplifters caused a disturbance on Saturday afternoon and because of their aggression when confronted, out of an abundance of caution, our store manager temporarily locked the doors while waiting for the police.

"It's now in the police's hands and we are helping them deal with the matter.

"The safety of colleagues and customers is always our immediate priority."

Eyewitnesses said the pair punched and hurled items at shop workers after they were suspected of attempting to steal an advent calendar, worth 50p, from the store.

An onlooker said: "One shocked mum shielded her young children's eyes and tried to leave the store in a hurry.

"The manager ordered time and closed the doors of the busy store. Poundland has been placed in total lockdown."

Police were called to the city centre shop soon afterwards.

Police have been contacted for comment.

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