Six charity boxes - including for the Poppy Appeal - have been swiped from a Burger King restaurant.

The collections were taken between 2.40am and 2.45am today from the fast food outlet in Margate Road.

PC Hannah Knox said: "We understand that three of the charity boxes were for the Poppy Appeal and three were for the RNLI.

"We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the burglary or has any information about the incident to contact us.

"Shops and cafes are also being urged to ensure their charity boxes are kept secure.

"The most effective way to do this is to chain them to counters during opening hours and to keep them locked away in a safe place when businesses close."

If you have any information about the burglary phone police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 29-0132.

Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.