A COUPLE in a campervan had a traumatic experience when they were threatened by a gang armed with baseball bats and a handgun.

The man and woman had stopped their vehicle in a layby on the northbound carriageway of the A249 at Detling Hill, just outside Maidstone, for a rest and refreshments.

Suddenly they heard banging on the rear of the van and found they were surrounded by three or four men wearing balaclavas and hitting the van with baseball bats.

One of the men then produced a hand gun and threatened the couple who were forced to hand over a mobile phone and some other minor items.

The robbers then made off in a blue "Sierra-type" car in the direction of Sittingbourne.

The couple, who are both in their forties, were shaken by the event, but not harmed.

Four men are in custody helping police with their inquiries.

Police are appealing for any information about the attack which happened at 10.30pm on Friday. Contact Det Sgt Rob Cox on 01622 604275.