BURGLARS have stolen 30 air rifles and clothing believed to be worth thousands of pounds from a sports shop. Among the haul taken from Sheppey Sports Centre on the corner of Sheerness High Street and Hope Street were three Crossman Rabbitstoppers worth £190 each and three Crossman Pneumatic Pistols each valued at £175.

Police spokeswoman Sally Farrell said: "These rifles are potentially dangerous. If the public become aware of someone with these they are asked to tell the police and we can recover them."

Sports clothing was also take during the raid which happened between 5pm on Saturday and 9.30am on Monday. The shop was ransacked. A spokeswoman for the owners said they were still discussing their losses with insurers but declined to comment further.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC David Crouch, who is investigating the case, on 01795 477055, ext 2635, or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555111.