RAM-RAIDERS reversed a jeep into the front of the village newsagents at Minster,near Ramsgate, early today. Masked men wearing balaclava helmets climbed from the green Cherokee into Atwells newsagents but were disturbed when the shop owner, who lives above the business, was woken by the noise and went to investigate.

Police said two men got back into the vehicle that was driven off by a third man. It was later found abandoned and on fire at Elmstone village between Wingham and Ash. A police spokeswoman said: “Damage to Atwells display window and to the shop counter and till is estimated at £2,500. We are not certain if anything was stolen.”

The ram-raid happened at about 2.40am. Anyone who saw the jeep in or around Minster, or who saw men leaving it at Elmstone and possibly getting into another car, are asked to telephone Thanet police on 01843 231055.