An elderly couple were targeted by conmen who got into their home and stole cash and jewellery from inside while they were pretending to be police officers.

Detectives investigating the distraction burglary in Hoo say they have not ruled out the possibility it is connected to other similar incidents across the county and beyond.

Police are advising homeowners to stay safe when answering their doors to strangers after the pensioners were targeted at their home in Blackman Close, Hoo, between 7pm and 7.30pm on Tuesday, January 24.

Detectives are currently investigating eight reports of distraction burglaries which have been reported to them by victims who say men who identify themselves as police officers knocked at their homes before searching them for valuables.

The victims said two men identified themselves as police officers who were carrying out an investigation following reported burglaries in the area.

One of the men spoke to the elderly homeowner while the other searched the property for items to ensure they were stored in safe locations.

After leaving the pensioners reported a quantity of cash and jewellery had been taken.

The first suspect, a man is described as being a white in his 60s, with a slim build and approximately 5ft 7ins. He was wearing casual clothes and white knitted gloves.

The second man is also being white, between 30 and 40, with a medium build and approximately 5ft 7ins. He was said to be wearing casual clothes.

Officers have not ruled out the possibility that this is linked to similar incidents reported to have taken place in; Lawrence Drive, Gravesend, on November 26, 10.15pm and 10.30pm; Tennyson Walk, Gravesend, on the same day between 10pm and 11.24pm; Acacia Walk, Swanley on November 14, between 10.15pm and 11pm and Rochester Road, Strood, on the same night between 9.10pm and 9.29pm; Vanessa Way, Bexley, on December 16 between 7pm and 9pm; Edgehill Gardens, Gravesend, on the same day between 6.30pm and 7.40pm and Gresham Road, Coxheath, Maidstone on December 9 between 8.50pm and 9.20pm.

Anyone with information concerning any of these incidents should call Kent Police on 01634 792209 quoting reference number XY/3742/17.