Police are searching for two men in a black Audi after six canisters of nitrous oxide gas were stolen from a hospital in Canterbury.

Officers are warning the public to call them immediately if they come across the canisters, which were stolen from The Chaucer Hospital in Nackington Road earlier this week.

The nitrous oxide - which is more commonly known as laughing gas - was taken between 11.10pm and 11.12pm on Wednesday night.

Two men in a black Audi A3 were seen in the area at the time of the burglary.

Detective Inspector Marcus Whitnell said: "We are asking people if they come across the gas canisters to contact us.

"Nitrous oxide is not a highly flammable gas, however all gas can be dangerous, particularly in a compressed state.

"People using it should be also aware that because it deprives the body of oxygen, it can be fatal when taken in excess.

"This risk is likely to be greater if the gas is consumed in an enclosed space or if a substantial amount is rapidly used."

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident to contact them.

Det Insp Whitnell added: "Two men in a black Audi A3 were seen in the area at the time of the burglary.

"They were both described as white, over 6ft tall and of a slim or thin build.

"One was wearing a grey hoodie, blue jacket, blue skinny jeans and black trainers.

"The other was wearing a grey coat with a light-coloured top underneath, blue jeans and black and white Nike trainers. Both men were wearing grey gloves."

Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to phone police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference ZY/33695/16.