A group of five shoplifters appears to be targeting a number of pharmacies across Romney Marsh.

The gang stole a number of items from Well Lydd Pharmacy on the town's High Street at 10.55am, as they spent two minutes stuffing items into their pockets.

One of the shop's staff said: "Our shop's in an L-shape, so we couldn't see the area they were standing in. The shop was busy, and a man came to the counter and had a conversation with us about a conditioner as a distraction.

"The other four people then left without buying anything, which we thought was a bit weird. Then we looked at the CCTV and we were stunned.

"This is the first time we've ever seen anything this blatant, and such a big group doing it.

"The police were fantastic, as soon as we saw what they'd done we called 999 and within seconds there was a car whizzing by looking for them and another car came to talk with us and get information.

"Also the response on social media - of other people's CCTV images tracking the vehicle through the Marsh - has been brilliant. Thank you for all of the community's fantastic help."

The items stolen were mostly nicotine replacement products, which are priced in the pharmacy between £15.99 and £29.99.

It's been reported that the group has also visited Lloyds Pharmacy in New Romney, however staff were aware of the earlier incident and ensured there were a number of vigilant employees on the shopfloor.

The three women and two men have also been seen in New Romney and Rye today.

Regarding the Lydd incident, a police spokesperson said: "Kent Police was called at 10.55am on Friday, February 14 to a report of shoplifting in High Street, Lydd.

"Five people reportedly stole items from a shop before getting into a black or dark grey car and driving towards Camber.

"Officers attended the scene and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing."

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