Kent Police has issued an e-fit of a suspect believed to be involved in a burglary.

An elderly woman reported having her home ransacked by burglars claiming to work for the local council.

The victim has worked with the police to create a computer- generated image of one of the men.

The woman had asked the men to leave her home but instead they are reported to have emptied numerous drawers throughout the address before making off with £20 in cash.

The incident took place in the Beech Road area of Dartford between 5pm and 6pm on Monday, July 18.

Anyone with information should call the appeal line on 01474 366149 quoting reference XY/27816/16.

PC Dameon Shaw, investigating officer, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to remind people of how to protect themselves from bogus callers.

"Most people who call at our homes are genuine but it is always worth being cautious. People from water, gas and electric companies rarely visit without appointments and if there is a real emergency then police and firefighters are likely to be there too.

"By taking a few simple measures we can make life much more difficult for would-be offenders. Please also remember to keep an eye on elderly relatives and neighbours and to report anything suspicious by calling 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress."

Kent Police have issued a list of measures that can prevent this type of crime:

• Lock your back doors and windows before answering the front door – thieves often work in pairs, one distracting you at the front door while the other tries the back.

• Use your spyhole and chain and ask who they are through the door first.

• Check their identification, even if they have a pre-arranged appointment.

• If you are not expecting them and they do not have ID, do not let them in.

• If they leave you a contact number, do not use it as it may be fake. Find the company’s number in the phone book, on the internetor on a recent bill instead.

• If you need to get something, close the door until you return.

• If in doubt, ask them to leave and come back at a more convenient time when a family member or friend can be with you.