TWO masked raiders were forced to flee a shop empty handed after a struggle with staff who were helped by a four-year-old border collie.

Shop supervisor Lainy Lines and colleague Aurea Sinden were locking up for the day at The Original Factory Shop in High Street, Headcorn, when they were approached by the men, one holding an object concealed in a plastic bag.

When the men demanded money a struggle ensued which ended in the would-be robbers running away empty handed.

Police say it was Miss Lines’ presence of mind to shout, explaining the shop’s alarm would continue to sound, that drove them away.

They also gave credit to her four-year-old Fly for his efforts in helping to fight off the attackers.

Miss Lines, 22, of The Meadows, Biddenden, said: “I really didn’t realise how serious it was at the time. Even after I had been knocked to the floor I didn’t feel that scared. It was only afterwards when I was talking to the police that I broke down.

“Fly was barking loudly and I called out to command him to bite. I’m not sure whether he did because I was on the floor struggling, but I’m certain if he hadn’t been there they might not have run off.”

“It was only because my parents were going away on holiday that I had brought him to work. It was pretty lucky.”

Shop manager Julia Tyrone hailed her staff and border collie Fly for their bravery during the incident, adding: “Lainy’s reactions and the reactions of the dog, who defended both of them, might have saved their lives.”

Both raiders are described as wearing black balaclavas and parka style jackets One of them is around 5ft 10ins tall, stocky and with a deep voice.

A police investigation into the incident, which took place on Friday, December 16 is on-going.

* Anyone with further information is asked to contact DC Andy Felton on 01622 604284 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.