Ferret owners have been warned to be vigilant following thefts in the Ashford.

Four ferrets were discovered missing by their owner from their run at a house in Ashford Road yesterday morning.

The housing had been tampered with and it is believed they were stolen at some point during the night between 10pm and 8am.

This follows a separate incident at a property in Willingdon, also in Ashford, on Tuesday, February 16 where a shed was broken into and two ferrets were reported stolen between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.

Police have now issued a warning to owners.

A spokeswoman for the force said: "Ferret owners in the Ashford area are advised to be vigilant to this offending and ensure they have adequate security measures in place to protect their animals.

"Anything suspicious should be reported to Kent Police."

Anyone with information concerning the thefts can call 01843 222289 quoting 46/31485/21 for Ashford Road or 46/25538/21 for Willingdon.

Information can also be reported online at www.kent.police.uk or by calling Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or visiting its website.

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.