A "significant quantity" of cash and expensive jewellery was stolen from two houses over the weekend.

The first one happened in Bathurst Road, Folkestone on Saturday and the second in Atkinson Road, Hawkinge on Sunday.

Police say entry to both properties was forced and that "officers are not ruling out the possibility that the incidents may be linked."

Det Ins Mark Weller said: "You can never underestimate just how much of an impact burglary can have on the lives of those affected.

"Victims feel violated and uneasy in their own homes, and the matter is made worse when the items stolen are not only valuable but also highly sentimental or a family heirloom.

"While our officers will do everything they can to prevent such burglaries occurring, there are steps residents can take to make sure their homes are secure and deter would-be offenders.

"For example,I would strongly encourage families to keep large amounts of cash or gold out of the house if they can, such as in a safety deposit box at a bank where available.

'I would strongly encourage families to keep large amounts of cash or gold out of the house' - Det Insp Mark Weller

"If you do need to keep high-value items at home then keep them in a good quality safe, bolted to a solid wall or floor and hidden out of sight.

"Remember also to keep doors and windows closed if you are leaving a room for any length of time, which is especially important with the warmer weather approaching."

Anyone who wishes to report a burglary or any suspicious activity is urged to call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Witnesses or anyone with information can call 101 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.