More than 20 containers of stolen diesel were returned to lorry drivers after police smelled a stench of fuel coming from a stolen car.

Officers checked lorries parked near the A2 in Canterbury Road, Dunkirk, and discovered the main fuel tanks of three had been siphoned of their diesel.

Fuel had also been taken from the refrigeration tanks of two other trucks.

Officers had been on patrol near the A2 when they discovered the suspected stolen car at about 8.45pm on Monday.

The local area and nearby woodland was searched by patrols, including some with police dogs, and a drone was also used to assist in the search.

The 25-litre drums of stolen diesel were discovered in the woods.

Fuel was returned to the drivers, the vehicle found in Canterbury Road was seized and inquiries remain ongoing to identify the people responsible for the theft.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious is asked to call police on 01795 419119 quoting reference 46/242191/21, or Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously by calling 0800 555111 or by filling in the online report form available on their website.