Would-be shoplifters couldn't handle the heat when they were forced to return their loot from a shop in Dymchurch.

A group of women reportedly using distracting tactics to staff in the Smuggler’s Chest shop on Dymchurch Road last Friday morning tried taking a number of Yankee Candles from the shelves.

But they will not face prosecution or further police action after the items were returned.

CCTV images captured the group attempting to steal the stock said to be worth £200 after they threw lighters over the shop to divert the staff’s attention.

But when they were confronted and realised there was CCTV images of them, the stock was returned to the shop.

Images were posted on Facebook of the incident by the shop warning other businesses to be on their guard.

The incident was reported to police but a spokesman confirmed charges were not being pursued.

They added: “The matter has been dealt with by way of restorative justice.

"A teenage girl was identified as the suspect. She has admitted taking the candles but has now returned them and apologised to the shop.

“She has also received a banning notice from the shop.

“The shop owner was satisfied with this outcome and will not be supporting a prosecution so there will be no further police action against the girl.”