A spate of burglaries across Kent has sparked a police search for three men believed to hold information on them.

Officers are linking five break-ins that took place over the space of four days in Ashford, Dover, Folkestone and Sturry.

CCTV footage and images of the suspects have been released by police, who also believe they may be linked to a number of other burglaries in the south east.

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DC Jonathan Heard said: "The offenders committing these burglaries know exactly what they are looking for.

"They are targeting high-value pieces of gold jewellery and are leaving behind costume jewellery and other expensive items such as laptops or other electrical items.

"We believe they are organised criminals who are travelling from outside the county to commit burglaries in Kent."

Each of the incidents saw varying quantities of jewellery being stolen.

The first reportedly took place in McCarthy Avenue, Sturry, between 8pm and 8.30pm on Tuesday, April 3.

Three more took place two days later on April 5, with the first of these happening just after midday in Park Avenue, Dover.

A man was seen knocking at the door shortly before two others broke into the house.

About four hours later two men broke into a property in Greystones, Ashford, and stole a gold necklace.

A watch and other pieces of jewellery were taken from another house nearby that afternoon.

The last burglary was at a house in Freemantle Road, Folkestone, between 5.15pm and 5.40pm on Saturday, April 7.

Two men in their mid-20s wearing bomber jackets, jeans and black baseball caps were seen leaving the property and driving off in a pale blue hatchback.

DC Heard added: "Many of the items of stolen jewellery have been passed down through generations and hold great sentimental value to their owners. We are keen to bring the offenders to justice."

If you recognise any of the men, call the police on 01843 222289 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting the reference number ZY/017794/18.