Thieves drove a digger into a Co-Op wall before making off with a cash point.

The ram raiders struck over-night at the Co-Op in Watchgate, in Lane End near Darenth.

Pictures on social media show the aftermath of the scene - with a digger left abandoned in the road nearby and a hole in the wall of the shop.

WATCH: Residents shocked after shop ram raided

Police investigating are now appealing for information, and say the thieves struck a about 3.15am this morning.

They say a mechanical digger is reported to have been used to remove the cash machine from the front of the store, which was then loaded onto the back of a vehicle and driven away.

Officers attended the scene and carried out a search of the local area with assistance from the National Police Air Service helicopter.

The cash machine was located inside a nearby barn shortly after 5am.

It is not believed any money had been removed from it.

Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are managing the investigation and would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about who is responsible.

Investigating officers are also keen to hear from anyone travelling in the area at the similar time who may have dash cam footage.

If you can help call the appeal line on 01474 366149, quoting reference 10-0102, or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111 or using the online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

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