Chaucer News in Sittingbourne was raided at 6.30am today.

It is believed two men carrying knives entered the shop and threatened staff. They are said to have got away with cash and cigarettes.

A police spokesman said: "We were called at 6.30am to reports two men had come into the store, threatened employees with a sharp object and demanded they open the safe.

"The pair made off with a quantity of cash and cigarettes. Officers are at the scene conducting enquiries."

It is the latest blow to owners Philip and Jan Chambers who were left counting the cost last month after a motorist drove into the front of the shop they have run for 20 years. Speaking at the time, Mrs Chambers said: "It does make you feel like walking away and calling it a day, but we will put it right.”

Then six days later, more than £4,000 of cigarettes were stolen during a break-in where thieves tried to smash the window of the front door.

When that failed, they forced the lock to gain entry to the Chaucer Road premises.