The winnings from dozens of scratchcards stolen during an early-morning petrol station raid cannot be cashed in, detectives have revealed.

Burglars swiped a roll of tickets when they broke into a branch of Esso in King's Road, Herne Bay, at 1am on Boxing Day.

But it has emerged that the criminals will not be able to claim any of the prizes, as they were voided by suppliers following the theft.

Having already launched a probe into the incident, officers are urging shop owners to come forward if they served anyone with one of the invalid cards.

A police spokesman said: "Businesses are being asked to report any suspicious activity.

"We would like to hear from any businesses in the area who have been approached by people claiming to have won with a scratchcard, which was then declared void by the system."

Anyone with information should call police on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 46/265166/21, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511.