Three men fled with cash and jewellery during an alleged distraction burglary.

Police are now warning residents to be on their guard in case the thieves try to strike again.

The first incident happened on Friday, September 11 at 2pm when it is alleged that two men approached a property on Beaver Lane, Ashford .

They claimed to be from the water board and whilst one of the men was speaking to the victim the other is said to have entered the property.

Then, later the same day, three men approached a property on Julian Road, Folkestone and also claimed to be from the water board.

It is alleged the men then entered the property and asked the victim to go to the kitchen and turn the taps on and off.

The victim then felt something wasn’t right and became distressed.

'Distraction thieves prey on the most vulnerable and try to take advantage of a person’s trusting and good nature...'

It is then claimed the three men fled with cash and jewellery.

Inspector Jason Atkinson said: "Distraction thieves prey on the most vulnerable and try to take advantage of a person’s trusting and good nature.

"It is important that residents are vigilant to this type of crime and be alert to unexpected callers.

"There are many ways you can protect yourself including making sure rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering your front door; fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms and always checking the ID of cold callers.

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

Anyone with information is asked to call 01843 222 289, quoting crime reference 46/163464/20.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org/

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone