A councillor fears his parish is under a "targeted attack" from burglars.

Downswood, near Maidstone, has suffered up to nine burglaries in recent weeks, the latest of which was last night.

Cllr Martin Weeks said the rise was "extremely unusual".

"I've lived in Downswood for 20 odd years, this is the first time we've ever had what feels like a targeted attack," he said.

"It seems to be the bigger, slightly more expensive properties that back on to the public footpath that are targeted.

"Burglars are ransacking properties, taking small things that can be easily carried."

Charlotte Rayner's neighbour's home was burgled on Friday, and yesterday, her parents' home in Horton Downs was trashed.

The Foxden Drive resident said: "We've taken the day off to try and clean up, the burglars have broken everything.

"My parents were locking their internal doors after I told them what was happening in the area, but all of them have been broken.

"They've taken jewellery, a Playstation and cash, anything they could grab.

"Some of the jewellery had sentimental value, its been a kick in the teeth."

Police were seen knocking on doors in Foxden Drive on Saturday, after two homes were raided in the road on Friday night.

Kent Police have been approached for comment.