Four teenagers have been arrested and bailed following the alleged theft of cash and cigarettes from a village store on Sunday.

The incident happened at Elvington Village Stores in Adelaide Road at about 12.45am.

Owners Mike and Jean Fenney were alerted at around 2am, and when they arrived the police were at the scene.

Mr Fenney said the store has been targeted by thieves on more than one occasion.

It is believed a window was smashed, outside cladding was ripped off an electricity supply switch was broken.

On Sunday morning the couple sold newspapers outside in the cold while the police investigated.

A Kent Police spokesman said: “Police responded to calls about a break-in at Elvington Village Stores early on Sunday morning.

“Four young males were arrested. Tejay Lewis, 19, of Terrace Road, Elvington was charged with burglary other than a dwelling and possession of cannabis.

“Bradley Morgan, 18, of Chaucer Road, Elvington ,and two other males aged 14 and 17 were charged with burglary other than a dwelling.”

All four were released on bail to appear before Folkestone magistrates on Wednesday, February 4 2015.

Mr Fenney said: “We also feel that the district council could provide more support for local shops, especially with some sort of warden.”

He said he would increase security measures at the shop.