RAM-RAIDERS using a stolen JCB targeted two ATM cash machines at the Tesco store in Leybourne Way, Larkfield, near Maidstone.

The machines, housed in a small stand-alone building on the site, were destroyed before the robbers loaded them on to a white tipper vehicle and escaped.

Police say the registration number of tipper vehicle starts MK788.

It is believed that the JCB had earlier been stolen from the Rochester area. The thieves also used a low-loader and a tractor during the raid.

Kent Police say the incident happened shortly after 5am on Sunday. It is not yet known how much money was in the machines or how many raiders were involved.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area early on Sunday.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Kent Police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.