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 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.

The 55-year-old said: "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.

The raiders were seen making their way towards the Westgate Towers and police, who are studying CCTV footage of the incident, are appealing for witnesses.

• Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 01227 868117 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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