Forty five canaries and nine valuable gouldian birds have been stolen from two different aviaries in Ashford.

Police have issued an appeal after the thefts from two addresses in Bybrook Road, Kennington.

The gouldian birds are said to be worth £270 each and are similar in size to a canary but have a green and black head and purple around the neck. The total value of the canaries is estimated at £1,000.

The thefts took place between 5.45pm on Sunday afternoon and 8am on Monday morning. The aviaries suffered hundreds of pounds worth of damage.

Police would like anyone who has information about this incident to contact South Kent police on 01303 289180.