Cafés and restaurants in six locations in coastal towns and villages have been burgled within two weeks.

There was also an attempted break-in in a seventh place during that time in a spate of thefts between Folkestone and Dymchurch.

The raids took place between Wednesday, March 27, and Monday.

Businesses in Seabrook; Dymchurch Road and Martello Drive in Hythe; Tontine Street, Folkestone; Dymchurch Road in St Mary’s Bay and in High Street, Dymchurch all reported they had been targeted.

It was reported that padlocks, bolts and door panels had been removed and cash had been taken from the premises, along with food and drink.

It is also alleged that, over the same period, the door to a homeware store in Park Farm, Folkestone, had been interfered with in an attempt to get into the premises.

Investigations, including reviewing CCTV footage, are ongoing and business owners are warned to be on their guard.

Det Insp James Wyles of Folkestone Community Safety Unit said: “Crimes such as these can have devastating consequences for businesses and leave long-lasting effects that ripple out through communities.

‘Crimes such as these can have devastating consequences for businesses…’

“While officers are investigating these reports, I remind business owners to be extra cautious - ensuring windows, doors and storage buildings are locked and making sure that security systems are switched on when away from the premises.

”Consider fitting CCTV that covers the front and rear of the premises and use timer switches on lights as a deterrent.

“Don’t keep valuables on display, but consider installing a safe that could be bolted to the ground or wall.”

Business people are also advised to keep gates, boundaries and storage sheds secure.

They should also make sure items such as bins, which can be used to climb over fences or into windows, are stored out of sight.

People should report any suspicious activity as soon as possible, calling 999 if a crime is in progress.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting 46/55085/24.