The chief executive of a supermarket terrorised by a gang of youths has introduced new safety measures after a spate of anti-social behaviour.

A letter on behalf of David Potts, who owns Morrisons Supermarkets, was sent to Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson detailing the new measures being implemented.

It comes just a week after a CCTV van was parked at the store in Mill Way, Sittingbourne, to deter troublesome children from stealing and damaging products from the store and starting fires.

In his letter to the Conservative MP, Mr Potts said: "I can confirm that we are aware of the ongoing problem with anti-social behaviour and abandoned trolleys.

"We share your concerns and the issue is being investigated and monitored by our central loss prevention team whose role includes responsibility for the security of our stores.

"We hope the van acts as a deterrent, but also allows us to monitor and better understand the situation.

"In addition, our specialist trolley contractor Trolleywise currently visits Sittingbourne to collect any abandoned trolleys.

"They are working closely with the store team to ensure any abandoned trolleys are retrieved quickly and, following your letter, immediately visited the area to retrieve any missing trolleys and once again assess the situation.

"We have also instructed them to increase the frequency of their monitoring and collections. We hope this will have an impact on the situation.

"Customers and neighbouring residents can also request collection of trolleys using the Trolleywise app or by contacting the store.

"I am pleased to confirm we will be installing locks on all trolleys over the next few weeks. We hope this helps to have a positive impact.

"I do hope this helps to reassure you that we are taking the matter seriously and we are doing all we can to reduce the number of abandoned trolleys and prevent anti-social behaviour from taking place."

It comes after staff and customers were reportedly targeted by a gang of youths at the store in Mill Way.

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

Mr 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.