A thief “put lives at risk” after stealing a kit bag from an ambulance while paramedics treated a patient.

The Canterbury crew were responding to a patient outside the Canterbury Tales pub in The Friars at 1.30am on Thursdsay when the response bag was taken.

It contained oxygen, drugs and resuscitation equipment.

Alan Hougham, of the South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: “Lives have potentially been put at risk as a result of this incident.

“The vehicle was forced off the road while replacement equipment was found.

“Some of this equipment is vital for people who are seriously ill and potentially dangerous in the wrong hands.”

Anyone with information should contact Canterbury police on 01227 762055.