Would-be thieves attempted to smash their way through a window to enter a John Lewis at Home store at night.

The break-in happened at the store near the Drovers roundabout in Ashford shortly before midnight on Monday, April 4.

It is believed they failed in their attempt to get into the building, but customers have seen one of the £8,000 windows boarded up this week.

Police are now investigating the incident, and a John Lewis spokesman confirmed a break-in had taken place, but did not mention if the thieves had managed to steal any items.

The spokesman added: “Damage was minimal and the shop was fully operational the following morning.

“As a police investigation is underway we are unable to comment any further at this time.”

A statement from Kent Police is expected shortly.

The break-in comes days after thefts from John Lewis stores - the one in Ashford and one in Tunbridge Wells - on March 24, although it's not believed they are connected with the latest raid.