KentOnline

bannermobile

News

Sport

Business

What's On

Advertise

Contact

Other KM sites

CORONAVIRUS WATCH KMTV LIVE SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTERS LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS LISTEN TO KMFM
SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE
News

Paddock Wood: Burglars target Evernden Cycles in Maidstone Road

By: David Gazet

Published: 17:37, 19 December 2017

A family bicycle shop has been left to foot a £12,000 bill after burglars smashed their way in through their storefront in Paddock Wood.

The smash and grab happened around 8.40pm on Sunday when the perpetrators threw a concrete slab through the plate glass window at Evernden Cycles in Maidstone Road.

They entered, stole three bikes and damaged many more before escaping in a white van reportedly using false plates.

Picture by Lizzy Evernden
Evernden Cycles, is a family business which has been in Paddock Wood for decades. Pictured right: Karen and Tony Evernden

The business has been in Paddock Wood since the 1952 and husband and wife team Antony and Karen Evernden are the third generation of owners.

Mr Evernden said he arrived at his store within four minutes of the alarm sounding, but by then it was too late.

mpu1

He said: "It is just that time of year. Perhaps they are doing their Christmas shopping, but not like the rest of us."

The stolen bikes, damaged stock and plate glass window are expected to cost around £12,000 to replace.

Thieves used a large concrete block to smash their way through the plate glass window. Picture: Lizzy Evernden
Several bikes were damaged in the robbery. Picture: Lizzy Evernden

Posting on Facebook, outraged daughter Lizzy asked for anyone who can help to get in touch. She has posted three images of the stolen merchandise. To see them, click here.

She said: "It’s Christmas and times are tough enough for everyone at the moment and I know my parents work extremely hard to keep their business alive."

The same night, Downingbury Farm Shop in Maidstone Road, Pembury was also burgled. The thieves stole stock and caused significant damage, forcing the store to close on Monday while police investigated.

It is not yet known if both incidents are connected. Kent Police have been approached for more information.

If you can have information about the incidents, call police on 101.

Read more

More by this author

sticky

© KM Group - 2024