POLICE have launched an investigation into the theft of rare plants from a Kent nature reserve.

Twelve Meadow Clary plants were dug up and stolen from Ranscombe Farm park, in Cuxton, near Rochester, on Wednesday.

The blue flowery plants, which have the Latin name Salvia Pratensis, are a protected species.

They have been described as the "crown jewels" of British flora.

They were dug up and stolen from the farm between 12.01am and 10am.

Det Sgt, Adam Marshall is investigating the thefts. He said: "The enthusiasts who tend the plants have dedicated a large amount of time, effort and hard work in order to protect them.

"It is an endangered species and the enthusiasts have been left absolutely devastated by this theft.

"I would like to urge anyone who may have been offered the plants to get in contact with police. They were only a few centimetres tall and resemble non-flowering primroses.

"When in full bloom they can stand up to a metre high and have flowering spikes of blue flowers.

"In this case two offences have been committed and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have information that will help us with our enquiries."

It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to intentionally uproot or pick Meadow Clary.

Roger Crofts, from the wild plant conservation charity Plantlife, said: "This is a shocking example of environmental vandalism.

"Meadow Clary is a rare and declining species, one of the crown jewels of our British flora, so we must stand firm against criminal acts like the removal of these plants."

If you have information, call officers on 01634 792637 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.