A mobile CCTV unit has been set up outside a Morrisons supermarket where young thugs have been wreaking havoc.

Staff and customers have reportedly been targeted by the gang of youths at the store in Mill Way, Sittingbourne.

In recent weeks trolleys, bollards and eggs have been stolen from the shop, and attempted arson attacks carried out.

The anti-social behaviour has involved stock and other property being stolen, as well as members of staff being threatened, it is understood.

It comes after art supply shop Hobbycraft in Maidstone was forced to hire a security guard after gang of youngsters repeatedly targeted that store.

Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson has had a number of constituents contact him about the ongoing problems at Morrisons and has warned those responsible face "serious legal sanctions" if they do not stop.

He said the children had also been accused of committing crimes in nearby Hawthorn Road, Arthur Street and Laburnum Place.

Mr Henderson has teamed up with Morrisons and police to dispatch a mobile CCTV unit to the store in an attempt to deter the group of youths from misbehaving.

He said: "My senior caseworker, Alex McDermott, visited the store last week, and after his discussions with senior managers, I wrote to Morrisons head office, and also Kent Police, about the incidents in question to see what further action can be taken.

"Following these discussions, staff managed to secure a visit to the store from the mobile CCTV unit and the array of technology within will be engaged in ensuring that anyone involved in criminal activity or anti-social behaviour on the site, or its general vicinity, will be recorded and reported to the police, without fail.

"My constituents, particularly those who work in the store, have the right to go about their business without fear of abuse, anti-social behaviour or criminal activity.

"These are matters that I take very seriously, and I will be raising them in person at my next meeting with the local chief inspector.

"In the meantime, I would urge anyone who knows the youths in question, particularly parents and guardians, to tell them to stop their unacceptable behaviour before they are caught and subject to more serious legal sanctions."

The action comes after a number of incidents in the town caused concerns for residents and parents.

In August last year a teenager was seen being attacked by a "group of up to 20" outside the supermarket, while in January two youngsters were chased from the nearby McDonald's by balaclava-clad men who allegedly threatened them with knives.

A Morrisons spokesman said: "Our stores should be safe and welcoming places to work and shop and so we don't tolerate any antisocial behaviour."

The police have been approached for more information.