Kent Police are warning people to be vigilant after reports of a distraction burglary in Ashford.

Money was stolen from an elderly woman's purse on Monday evening after the offender approached her at home in Brookfield Road.

DS Carl Evans said: "The man claimed there was a problem with the water supply and asked the elderly occupant to go upstairs to check a radiator.

"After he’d gone she realised money had been stolen from her purse."

The man is described as white, clean-shaven, in his 50s and about 5ft 2in tall. He was wearing a dark coat, dark trousers and a black cap.

DS Evans urged people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours and relatives.

He said: ‘Although unharmed, the victim was understandably shaken by this incident. But there are ways people can protect themselves.’

This includes: ensuring rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering your front door; fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms and always checking the ID of cold callers - a door chain or spy hole will help you do this without letting anyone into your home. Don’t be afraid to turn people away

DS Evans would like to hear from anyone who saw a man matching the above description or anyone acting suspiciously in the Brookfield Road area on Monday evening.

If you have any information you can contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference number 02-1473.