An independent shop has become the latest victim in a spate of burglaries across Whitstable.

The owners of Ruskin were stunned to find half the stock was taken in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Garrie Keeys arrived at the menswear retailer to open up at 8.30am.

He said: “This is just hassle we don’t need before Christmas.

“They came in and absolutely wiped half the stock, it seemed to be a carefully planned burglary.

“They left the table in the middle of the shop exactly as it was and what they did take suggests they targeted the shop beforehand.

“It looks like the front door panel was kicked out and somebody crawled in, passing the items back out.”

A number of wool jumpers, knitwear and coats were among the items taken from the shop in Harbour Street.

Mr Keeys said: “Police are coming to collect the CCTV and hopefully we will be supported by our suppliers.

“We’re still open for business and we will endeavour to get any orders people want.

“We have had real support already from local people but all that we can ask for now is that people keep coming in and buying.”

Police spokesman Richard Allen said: "Kent Police is investigating a report of a burglary in Harbour Street, Whitstable.

"Inquiries are currently ongoing."

The incident is just the latest in a number of burglaries across the area, all of which have been committed at night.

Recent offences include two at shops in Whitstable High Street and two in Tankerton Road over the last weekend in November.

A pub in the High Street was also targeted between 5.30pm and 6.20pm on November 30, with cash and a bracelet stolen.

Police are warning residents to report any suspicious activity.

Sergeant Nick Barton said: “In several of the burglaries rear doors were forced and at two premises intruders removed bricks from rear walls in an unsuccessful attempt to break in.

“Investigations into these burglaries are ongoing and officers are following up a number of lines of enquiry and are stepping up patrols in the area.

“In the meantime if you see any suspicious activity in the two towns please report it immediately.”

Residents are asked to report any suspicious activity by phoning 101 or 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.