Traders are appealing for a thief to return money stolen from Cranbrook Farmers’ Market.

Police are investigating after around £100, which was to be used to pay for the hall hire and market insurance, was swiped at around 12.15pm on Saturday.

The pitch money had just been collected from the stallholders and was in a cash tin in a private area of the Vestry Hall in Stone Hall, by the kitchen.

Market manager Jane Apps said a young man was seen running away from the area.

She said: “The chap had asked for a glass of water and was near the area where the money was kept. I wonder if it might have been an opportunist who saw the cash sitting there and couldn’t resist.

“The money will have to come out of my private money as the market manager because excess on our insurance is more than the amount that was stolen.

“I’m just really disappointed that someone could steal from the hardworking producers. Especially as the market tries to do its bit for the community and each time gives a stall free of charge to a charity or organisation.

The market runs every fourth Saturday of the month, from 9.30am to 1pm and has a mix of food and craft stalls.

Police officers have made a number of enquiries including reviewing potential CCTV in the area.

Miss Apps, who runs The Fat Carrot vegan food company, added: “What I would say to the person is if they are feeling guilty, they could always pop the money through the door of the parish council.”

Anyone with information should call 01622 604100, quoting reference YY/016154/16. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.