Police are investigating another theft of rare wild plants from a nature reserve on the Kent coast.

It is the second incident in a month at the Folkestone Warren after similar rare plants were taken in January.

The White Cliffs Countryside Partnership (WCCP) said last week the theft of the wild cabbage and wild samphire had taken place. Police have now confirmed they are appealing for witnesses to track down the culprits.

Walkers reported the incident to police which is said to have taken place between 12pm and 2pm on Tuesday, February 7.

They reported seeing three men collecting large quantities of wild samphire and wild cabbage from the picturesque reserve on the cliffs overlooking the English Channel.

Statements collected so far say the men were seen loading the plants into a white van.

Kirk Alexander, from the WCCP, appealed last month after more plants were removed during a theft on January 18.

Theft of wild plants and in particular these protected species is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

PC Wayne Wright of the Kent Police Rural Taskforce said: "Foraging for wild grown produce is becoming increasingly more popular and areas where wild plants can grow undisturbed are fewer than ever.

"But it is important to strike a balance to ensure that wild plants and places are still here for future generations.

"It is an offence to collect plant material from protected sites such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, which The Warren is.

"Kent Police takes these matters very seriously and the Rural Taskforce will continue to work in partnership with Natural England and local authorities to target those involved in these activities.

"I would encourage anyone with information about this incident to get in touch with Kent Police."

Mr Alexander said: "We are very grateful to the local people who reported the theft of wild plants from Folkestone Warren and for their presence of mind in getting a description of the three men."

He added he was very concerned about the targeted thefts and removal of the wild species from sites like the Folkestone Warren which is a hotbed for rare species.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01843 222289 quoting ZY/006283/17.