A woman who works at a family-run newsagents says she is sick and tired of constant shoplifting and antisocial behaviour.

Kay Farmer, from News Plus in Sittingbourne, says thefts at the high street shop have increased significantly in the last few months.

She said: "We've had stock thrown at us, and nothing is being done about it. We've caught a lot of shoplifters before but by the time the police get here it's too late."

The shop has been open for two years and is owned by Kay's father, Robert.

"People will steal absolutely anything – magazines, drinks, sweets, chocolates," she said.

"It's only when we do our stock checks when we realise how much has been taken.

"We have spoken to the police quite a lot recently on the radios about general antisocial behaviour as well – we had a full-on fight in the shop where one customer assaulted another."

Kay says they get crisps and sweets thrown at them over small things such as customers not liking the minimum card payment of £1, or being asked for ID.

The shop had its back fence smashed in June, which will cost them £3,000 to fix.

"We've had to install CCTV and only let three school children in at a time because of the problems," Kay said.

"It's extremely stressful, and we've always got to be on guard. They're technically stealing straight out of our pockets, because we have to replace the stock that's lost.

"It's small amounts, but it all adds up."

Police confirmed they received a report of a group of people seen causing criminal damage to a fence near a commercial building in Sittingbourne High Street just after 8pm on June 29.

Officers carried out inquiries, including reviewing CCTV, but were unable to confirm the identity of the suspects and the report was filed pending further information.

Since June 2021, officers have investigated reports of offences including shoplifting and common assault connected to the same business.

Two men have been charged in connection with shoplifting offences.

District commander for Swale, Chief Inspector Sarah Rivett, said: "We are aware of the concerns of a local business owner following multiple incidents within their High Street shop.

"While this type of behaviour is often caused by a minority of people, we know the devastating impact it can have on small businesses and local communities and we take these reports extremely seriously.

"We do have dedicated town centre teams who ensure a visible police presence in the High Street and patrol the area regularly.

"I would urge anyone with concerns to report crimes as soon as they take place so we can respond accordingly.

"Officers will carry out a full investigation and where offenders are identified, robust and positive action will follow."