A shopkeeper was punched as two masked robbers raided a Marden newsagent.

The two men entered Kent Mart newsagent in Church Green at around 8.50pm yesterday.

Both were wearing masks. The first, the taller man, approached the shop assistant who had been crouching down counting money and punched him in the face.

As he did this, the other then took the money – being counted as the shop was about to close.

The pair then took off, possibly in a burgundy or maroon vehicle.

The 33-year-old victim was taken to hospital, but his injuries are not thought to be serious.

Anyone with any information which could help with the police investigation should call the investigating officer in Mid Kent on 01622 604188 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.