Kent Police has released an appeal for witnesses following an armed raid on a business in Leysdown yesterday.

Officers were called at 12.15pm following reports that three men had targeted Mr G's amusement arcade off the Promenade shortly before noon.

One of the men swung a large axe at a female member of staff while a second raider, believed to be carrying a snooker cue, looked on.

It is believed the third man was the driver of a black BMW getaway car who waited outside the premises.

The force's helicopter and police on the ground, including armed officers, searched the area and found the car in Cheyne Road, Eastchurch.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses who may have seen the men acting suspiciously before, during or after the incident, or who may have witnessed them leaving the BMW. Speaking on Saturday afternoon, Mr G's general manager, Barry Moss, said the raiders entered the arcade via a side door in the over-18s section of the building.

The men all had their faces covered. One has been described as wearing a light blue anorak, while another wore a dark T-shirt with GSRAW written on the front in white.

Investigating officer Det Sgt Heather Thompson said: "This was an extremely frightening incident for staff and it has left them badly shaken.

"We are treating this very seriously and following up every possible line of enquiry to locate the offenders and bring them to justice."

The main robber, who was wearing a hoodie, jeans and trainers, swung the axe and demaded cash from the safe.

The member of staff handed over around £3,000 and the men fled. The whole robbery has been captured on CCTV.

Mr Moss, who says he wouldn't wish such an incident on anybody, said a £500 reward is being offered for information leading to the convictions of the robbers.

The Sheppey Crossing was closed as officers aimed to control traffic and lessen the chances of the robbers escaping off the Island.

Anybody with information is asked to call 01634 792492, quoting crime reference XY/19866/13.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Have you taken a photo of the police seaching for the suspects? Please email to mramsden@thekmgroup.co.uk