An early morning break-in at the Co-op store in Beauchamp Avenue, Deal, saw thieves make away with cigarettes this morning (Wednesday).

Police were alerted when burglar alarms went off at 3.10am.

Deborah Clark, a spokeswoman from Co-operative Food, said the store was closed at the time, and remained closed until 11.30am today while officers investigate the scene.

Customers were unable to get too close because the area by the front door was cordoned off by police.

Mrs Clark said: “In the early hours our store on Beauchamp Avenue, Deal, was broken into and a quantity of cigarettes was stolen.

"The store was closed at the time.

“We apologise to customers for the inconvenience caused.

“CCTV has been given to the police and, as with any incident such as this, we would appeal for anyone with information to come forward.”

Witnesses are asked to call Kent Police on 101.