Raiders forced their way into a shop before threatening staff and stealing cigarettes and alcohol.

Police were called to scene in Eythorne Road in Sheperdswell, near Dover, after staff workers pressed an alarm.

It happened when the business was closed, but while shop assistants were still on the premises.

It is understood the three men fled the scene after an alarm was sounded.

One of the robbers is described as being white, stocky, in his mid- to late-30s and between 5ft 11in and 6ft tall. He was wearing a dark hooded top and a baseball cap.

The other two are said to be skinny, white, in their 50s and 5ft 9in tall.

One had stubble and was wearing a black and grey flat cap, a red scarf obscuring his face, a black hooded jacket and blue jeans.

The other man was wearing a black leather jacket and blue jeans.

It happened at about 5.20am on Friday.

Police are urging witnesses to call on 01843 222289, quoting reference number 46/128309/19, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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