Would-be thieves used a digger to try and steal a cash machine from a supermarket in Dymchurch overnight.

The incident happened at the Tesco Express store in the High Street at about 2.15am.

Officers were called out to reports the digger has been used in an attempt to remove the cash machine from the wall of the store.

The machine was not stolen, however significant damage has been caused to the building.

Three vehicles, including a silver 4X4 and a flatbed Ford Transit with a crew cab, are said to have been in the shop’s car park at the time of the incident but all left the scene after the incident an are believed to have travelled towards Hythe.

The incident also means staff at the branch will not be able to go into work today as the store has had to close because of the damage caused to the building.

The digger is also believed to have been stolen from the Dymchurch Beach car park at around 1.40am.

Detectives in the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are investigating and would like to hear from anyone who has information.

James Walker, spokesman for Kent Police said: "They would also like to obtain dashcam footage from any motorist who was travelling on the A259 in Dymchurch between 1.30am and 2.30am on February 28."

Anyone with information can call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 28-0093 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete an online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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