A burglar who broke into homes in Eynsford while pretending to deliver leaflets has been jailed.

Massa Oyegbalo targeted two properties in the village last year, but was caught after he was seen acting suspiciously by an off-duty police officer.

Oyegbalo smashed windows of two houses in Eynsford Rise on September 5, entering one of them and trying to force the door of another.

The 27-year-old then attempted to make his escape, boarding a train at Eynsford station - but the alert had been raised by the off-duty officer and he was arrested at the next stop in Swanley.

He was searched and a number of suspicious items were recovered including a tie clip, gloves and a small implement with a metal point believed to have been used to smash the windows.

During interview Oyegbalo told police he had been visiting the area to post leaflets to help advertise a relative’s electric car company.

He said he came across two homes which had broken glass in the porch areas, adding he was worried for the occupants so had been knocking hard on the doors.

He also claimed he had bought the tie clip, as a present for his girlfriend.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court Oyegbalo, of no fixed address, was charged with burglary and an attempted burglary. He pleaded guilty and on Thursday January 10 was sentenced to two years and six months imprisonment.

Detective Sergeant Dave Higham said: "Oyegbalo is a prolific and repeat offender who travelled by train to Eysnford with the sole intention of committing burglaries. Thankfully the quick thinking of an off-duty officer meant we were able to catch him almost straight away and also seize evidence which meant he had little choice but to plead guilty in court.

"I would like to remind residents that they can help us track down offenders and secure successful convictions by identifying personal and valuable possessions. Mark your property, by taking photographs of items and recording serial numbers. In the event of anything being stolen this greatly improves the chances of your property being reunited with you."