A jewellers was targetted during the early hours of the morning in a “violent break-in”.

Canterbury Jewellers and Pawnbrokers said in a statement it has been forced to temporarily close after suffering a “substantial loss of stock.”

The family-run business, situated in the Ducking Stool, St Peters Street, was raided in the early hours of Friday morning, it is understood.

“As some of you may be aware , we at Canterbury Jewellers and Pawnbrokers were unfortunate enough to be the victims of a violent break-in , during the early hours of this morning,” the owners said in a statement.

“Thankfully no one was hurt and despite a lot of irreparable damage and a substantial loss of stock we would like to assure everyone that no customer repairs or pawnbroking has been affected.

“At this time we ask for everyone to be patient with us as we assess the damage and try to make progress to ensure we can reopen.

“Thank you for your patience and kindness,” a message on its website says.

We ask for everyone to be patient with us as we assess the damage and try to make progress to ensure we can reopen

Well-wishers on social media have rallied around the company, which has operated in the city for more than 20-years.

Offering condolences, Emma Dale said: “What a sad world we live in, so sorry for you all.”

The firm, which values and buys jewels and precious metals from the public, has been contacted for comment.

The reported break-in comes after a nearby high-end jewellers was raided.

Graham Walters snatched precious gem and ran from the Iconic Jewellery Store in Canterbury high street, while posing as a potential buyer.