Metal thieves targeted a clothes store when they stole copper piping from its air conditioning system.

The theft happened at the Matalan Store in Strood Retail Park while the store was closed.

When staff opened up on Tuesday morning and went to switch the air conditioning system on, they discovered it would not work as the copper piping had vanished.

One woman who went shopping there today but didn't want to be named, said: "It was very hot in the store and when I went to pay for the blouse I wanted, I asked the lady on the till why it was so hot.

"She told me their air con system was not working as some copper piping had been stolen."

Police say they are investigating the incident and are appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious to contact them.

A spokesman for Medway Police said: "Officers in Medway are investigating a report of theft of copper pipe from a Matalan store in Strood Retail Park which is believed to have happened overnight before the store opened on Monday, September 17."

Anyone with any information should contact officers on 101 quoting reference 18-0257. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.