THREE men armed with hammers and a baseball bat robbed the Co-op store in Gadby Road, Sittingbourne.

Police say they made threats towards two members of staff and the one customer in the shop. They stole an undisclosed amount of money and cigarettes.

Police spokeswoman Sally Smith said: “The men also attempted to steal the lottery machine but realised it was too heavy and left it behind. They escaped in what has been described as a dark-coloured new style Audi A4. It is thought they car drove off in the direction of Staplehurst Road.

The incident happened just before 10pm on Wednesday. The robbers were wearing baseball caps and hooded tops.

Anyone with information is asked to telephone Swale Police on 01795 584170 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.