TWO women and a man were injured when their car was rammed during a getaway by cash machine robbers.

The free-standing cash machine was stolen from the Co-Op store in Newington, near Sittingbourne, at about 3.30am on Good Friday.

But while the thieves were making a fast getaway they smashed into a passing car at high-speed injuring the three occupants, who are all from Stockbury. All three were taken to hospital.

A 4x4 vehicle had reversed into the shop front and officers think at least four people helped remove the cash machine before leaving the scene via Bull Lane.

A second 4x4, a metallic green Range Rover, was abandoned at the scene and it is suspected a third vehicle, an estate car, was also used in the theft.

CCTV footage of the incident has been handed to the police by the Co-Op.

One resident said it looked as though the offenders had tried to drag the cash machine as there were scrape marks on the road leading to Bull Lane.

Police closed off Newington from the Key Street roundabout junction while they carried out their investigations. It was reopened mid-morning.

Det Insp Tom Richards said: "This theft has unfortunately resulted in three innocent members of the public being hurt, thankfully not seriously.

"Anyone who may have any information about those responsible for the theft and the mindless attack on three innocent members of the public should contact police."

A spokeswoman for the Co-Op said: "The store was closed at the time of the robbery and no staff were present, however extensive damage has been caused to the store frontage.

"CCTV footage has been given to the police who are investigating and we would appeal to anyone with information to come forward.

"We would like to apologise to our customers for any inconvenience this may have caused."

The store reopened on Friday afternoon.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01622 690690 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.