Onlookers stood by and watched as ram-raiders attacked a city centre jewellery store.

The thieves drove a stolen Land Rover into the window of Anthony Pearce in St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, at 1.30am on Thursday.

It is not yet known how much they took, but damage to the shop is likely to be £10,000.

It is the 31st time a shop belonging to Mr Pearce has been raided in such fashion.

He said: “Things like this are an occupational hazard, but it doesn’t make it any easier to stomach.

“I’m told there were quite a few people out here watching. They didn’t get involved but at least they phoned the police.”

Detectives believe four men were involved in the raid. The red Land Rover had been stolen from Herne and was found abandoned at Stockbury, near Sittingbourne.

Mr Pearce, 55, believes little jewellery was taken.

“Most of it is locked away for the night,” he said, “and the reinforced glass we use did its job.

“But it’s still going to cost an awful lot to repair. Whenever something like this happens, I always make sure I use local people to carry out the repairs and they always do an excellent job.”

The raiders were seen making their way towards the Westgate Towers and police are appealing for witnesses.

Det Sgt Chris Greenstreet said: “We are currently studying CCTV footage of the burglary and a number of witnesses have already been interviewed.

“The area was busy when the crime occurred and we are appealing for witnesses who have yet to speak with an officer to contact us.”

Anyone with information can call 01227 868117 quoting reference EY/1948/09 or Kent CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111