Hundreds of pounds have been stolen from two town centre stores after they were targeted in late-night raids.

Taylor Meats and Graingers Sandwich Bar in Mortimer Street, Herne Bay, were both burgled overnight.

Scott Taylor, the owner of the butchers, learned his business had been broken into at 7am this morning.

“One of my members of staff had arrived before me and called me saying we’d been cleared out,” the 48-year-old said.

“When I got in I was actually relieved he meant all the till money had been taken and not the meat.

“They went through the skylight at the back of the building. We’ve got some repair work to do, but it won’t affect us trading today.”

Mr Taylor believes the intruder scaled the roofs to the rear of the butchers in order to break in.

Despite being relieved that none of his meat or equipment had been stolen, he says he was “gutted” to have lost about £750 along with mobile phones, a key and tablet.

“With trade being dreadful at the moment, it’s just another kick in the teeth,” he added.

“We’re not taking any money because the shop isn’t performing and footfall in Herne Bay is awful.

“I’m gutted. I’d do anything for a pound, and I’ve lost 750.”

The owner of Graingers, Mustafa Mutlu, believes the intruder broke into the business last night by forcing open a window above the shop's door.

His computer records show the till was opened at 9.35pm. He says he will look to improve the sandwich bar’s security and consider not leaving cash in the building overnight.

“They took all the money I’d left here – about £425,” Mr Mutlu, 36, said. “Business is already hard, but facing this makes it doubly hard.

“I’ve got Greensted’s in William Street as well, so I’m worrying now about how I can keep both of them safe. I’ll definitely get a CCTV camera and I will look into what else I can do.”

Police have confirmed they are investigating last night’s break-ins and that they will review nearby CCTV.

They have urged anyone with information that could assist officers’ enquiries to call them on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 02-0247 for the Graingers break-in or 02-0199 for the incident at Taylor Meats. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

For advice on business security, police recommend visiting www.kent.police.uk/business.

Read more: All the latest news from Herne Bay.