A bogus gardener has duped a woman in her 90s and stolen from her house in Ash.

The man entered the victim's home in Chilton Field and convinced her to pay him for gardening work.

She gave him some cash but he left without doing any work and she later found cigarettes had been stolen from the property.

The suspect is described as a tall white man with a heavy build and grey hair.

It happened between 3pm and 4pm on Thursday, March 28 and now police are reminding homeowners to be wary of unsolicited callers, especially those claiming to do work.

Detective Constable Courtney Woodward said: ‘If people were in the area at the time of the incident, we would like to hear if they saw anything which might be useful towards our investigation.

"As the weather gets warmer and people are more likely to be out in their gardens, we also want residents to be mindful of security to their property.

"Don’t leave your doors and windows open or even unlocked unless you are nearby.

"Be alert to rogue traders who will offer services or goods, usually overcharging for work or, as in this case, receiving payment without carrying out the work."

For more tips visit www.kent.police.uk/advice/bogus-callers-and-rogue-traders/

Anyone with information about the incident should call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/64561/19.

Alternatively, call the independent charity, Crimestoppers in Kent, anonymously, on 0800 555111.