A store owner has been left dismayed after two thieves smashed into his business and swiped four electric scooters.

The raid on At Your Service in Whitstable High Street, which specialises in leather goods and shoe repairs, happened in the early hours of yesterday.

Owner of the family-run business Sanjay Nagar, 55, says £800 worth of stock was stolen and he will have to fork out up to £2,000 to repair damage to the front of the shop.

He told how CCTV captured the two burglars peering through the window of the store at about 2am before walking away.

However, they returned 30 minutes later and were breaking the door down, causing damage before stealing four electric scooters.

Mr Nagar says the burglars were only in the shop for minutes and the alarm was activated.

He discovered the damage at 6am, telling how the front door window panel and handle had been taken clean-off.

And the incident could not have come at a worse time for Mr Nagar.

"It's a shame really because my father passed away and it's his funeral on Friday," he added.

A police spokesman said: "It is believed two men broke into the premises at around 2.30am and stole four electric scooters from inside.

"An investigation is under way and officers are carrying out a review of local CCTV opportunities."

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information is urged to call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/59531/21.

You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by completing an online form on their website.

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