A masked gang of up to seven robbers has targeted an A2 petrol station.

Crooks raided the Esso service station on the London-bound carriageway at Cobham at about 2am today (Tuesday).

A 50-year-old cashier was bundled into the toilet, where one man stood guard. Others searched the premises for cash and cigarettes.

The unarmed men, who were all either hooded or masked, had placed cones at the entrance to the service station to dissuade drivers from using the facilities.

But all made off empty handed in a silver Ford Transit van. Police said the cashier was shaken but unharmed.

If you have information which could help police with their inquiries, contact Det Sgt Cameron Riley at North Kent Police on 01474 366098 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.