A pair of burglars who stole hugely sentimental jewellery during a burglary spree across east Kent have been jailed.

Thieves Stephen Baillie and Taylor Houston targeted 10 homes in Herne Bay, Canterbury, Blean, Whitstable, Wingham and Sandwich between October and November.

They were arrested after detectives spotted and stopped a van linked to the raids in Sandwich on November 21.

Baillie, 32, of Westgate Court Avenue, Canterbury, and Houston, 28, of Canterbury Road, Herne Bay, were charged with conspiracy to burgle the following day.

They admitted the charge and were sentenced to four and half years each at Canterbury Crown Court yesterday.

Jewellery stolen during some of the burglaries was recovered by officers and returned to victims.

Detective Sergeant Jay Robinson, of the Chief Constable's Crime Squad, said: "These two individuals thought that they could target addresses and steal jewellery, some of which was of great sentimental value to victims.

"Our extensive investigation showed the court the level of involvement of both of these men in these burglaries and we were delighted to be able to return stolen items in some cases.

"Kent Police will always look to hold offenders accountable for their actions and I hope that these two will take the time in prison to reflect on their life choices."