Armed thugs seen carrying “a crowbar” robbed a Home Bargains store which opened just three weeks ago.

Police were called to the shop in North Lane, Faversham, which used to be home to Morrisons, at about 12.15am on Monday.

A witness, who asked to remain anonymous, said he called the police after he “heard some noises”.

“We saw two people, one with a crowbar, opening the doors,” he explained.

“One man grabbed a basket and ran in and threw stuff outside to the other guy, they ran off with a few boxes of stuff.”

Police quickly arrived and the witness says he believed four staff members were inside at the time.

The budget chain opened on November 2 after Morrisons left the site last year with bosses blaming the store’s unsustainable economic performance.

Bosses at Home Bargains revealed plans to change the 1,709 sq m retail space – by expanding the entrance area and installing a new shop front – last year.

The plans were approved by Swale Borough Council and the site has an in-store bakery and a large chilled and frozen range.

A police spokesperson said: “A man is alleged to have forced entry to the store where he stole a quantity of confectionery.

“An investigation is underway and officers are appealing to anyone with information to call 01795 419119, quoting 46/195700/24.”

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.

Home Bargains was unable to comment further.