A CASH machine was ripped from a petrol station wall in Gravesend early today after ram-raiders crashed into it in an old-style Range Rover.

At around 1.15am the vehicle reversed into the front of the Texaco service station on Pelham Road South.

A man got out and hooked a chain on to the cash machine. The car drove off dragging it along the road.

The shop assistant at the filling station was unhurt. The assistant saw the car speed off and said the man who hooked the chain on to the machine was 5ft 10in, wearing a black balaclava, a bright orange puffer jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with any information on the theft can call north Kent Police on 01322 283111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.