A man posing as a window cleaner stole a purse full of cash from a home in Ashford while pretending to wash the windows.

The thief visited several homes in the Cygnet Way area of South Ashford on Friday afternoon before finding his victims.

One household took up his offer at about 4.10pm and invited him into their home to fill his buckets with water.

Shortly afterwards they noticed a purse was missing from their living room but by that time the man was nowhere to be seen.

Police are now warning residents in the area to be on the lookout and have issued a description of the suspect.

He is described as white, aged 35 to 40, of stocky build, with short, dark brown hair and a moustache. He had a long face and lots of tattoos on his neck.

The man was wearing long blue shorts with red stripes down the sides and a pink faded top with bands around the arms.

Police spokesman Jon Green warned: "Beware of strangers who turn up unannounced offering services or claiming to be working for utility companies as they might be trying to trick their way into your home to steal valuables and money.

"If in doubt – keep them out!"

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect is asked to call Detective Constable Robert Goodban on 101 quoting crime ref ZY/20942/15. More advice on dealing with bogus callers and rogue traders can be found on the Kent Police website.