KENT Police have issued a warning to householders and businesses following a series of incidents involving a young woman confidence trickster.

The woman, thought to be aged about 25, uses two distinct methods to gain money from her victims.

She either knocks on doors and begs for money claiming that she needs cash to travel and visit sick or dying relatives, or steals items from shops and then returns them claiming a refund.

She states that they are no longer required as the person they were bought for has died, or is seriously ill.

She has been operating mainly in the Ashford and Weald areas. PC Katie Mitchell, of Ashford Police, said: "This woman repeatedly plays on the trusting, helpful nature of residents and shop staff by telling the most appalling lies for her own personal gain."

“I urge anyone who thinks that this criminal deception has been played on them or attempted on them, to contact us on 01233 619167.”

The offender is white with shoulder-length light brown hair, about 5ft 6ins tall and of slim build.