Parcels are being swiped from Kent doorsteps in the run-up to Christmas - with one area alone recording six thefts in four weeks.

Police are urging households across the county to remain vigilant following a spate of incidents in Canterbury.

On each occasion – the last of which was on December 4 – deliveries had been made, but when the recipient stepped outside to collect the items, they discovered their package had been taken.

Insp Guy Thompson said: “We investigate all reports of theft and are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

“It is important to note that, compared to the number of households in the area, the number of postal thefts remains very low and residents remain very unlikely to become victims.”

During the first theft, which took place on November 11, a resident in Down Road received a notification, along with a photograph, showing their parcel had been delivered.

However, it was not there when the victim went to collect the item.

Two more incidents were reported on November 18, with one in Bingley Court and the other in Long Meadow.

On both occasions the deliveries were left at the property, but when the purchasers went to collect them, they were gone.

And police are investigating three more thefts in Westwood Drive, Kilndown Gardens and Kent Avenue, which took place between November 22 and last Saturday.

“We are not complacent and encourage residents to take the following steps to further reduce the chances of having their post stolen,” Insp Guy Thompson added.

“Track your parcel to ensure somebody is at home when it is delivered, or arrange for it to be received by a trusted neighbour or family member.

“Install a security light, CCTV or a video doorbell to discourage thieves from approaching and to alert you when someone is at your home.

“Alternatively, use an off-site locker service as these tend to be in busy, safer locations and are therefore less likely to be targeted by thieves.”

This comes after shocking CCTV footage taken last month showed the moment a man walking his dog along Sandling Road, Maidstone, paused to steal an Amazon parcel from outside a house.