A pink baseball bat was used in a robbery at a jewellery shop.

Police called in a helicopter to help them try to trace the pair of armed robbers, who struck at a shop in Sandgate Road just before 2pm today.

One of the men pulled out the pink bat and threatened staff at Simmonds jewellers'. The men then emptied items from the display case into their pockets and ran off down Cheriton Place.

One of the men is described as white, 5ft 10in tall, wearing a grey hooded top and a grey scarf covering the lower part of his face and a black or navy puffa style jacket.

The other man was also about 5ft 10in tall and had a pink baseball bat and was wearing latex gloves. He was also wearing a dark hooded top and dark puffa-style jacket and had a scarf covering the lower part of his face.

The Essex Police Helicopter hovered over the scene, communicating with officers on the ground outside the Chambers coffee shop and attempting to trace the men.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is asked to contact Kent Police on 01303 850055.

Alternatively if you have information but wish to remain anonymous call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.