It was more bah humbug than baubles as Christmas carollers knocked on a householder's door.

Because - instead of a rendition of Good King Wenceslas or We Three Kings - the pair of 'festive' singers are stealing from homeowners.

And, rather than decking the halls, they have even stolen a mobile from one at a house in Sittingbourne.

Now police are warning householders to keep their eyes peeled for the not-so charitable singers.

Last night at 6pm, a resident in Silverdale Grove answered the door to two male carol singers claiming to be collecting money for a local charity.

They showed them a card with writing from the charity on it.

However, when the homeowner went to get his wallet to give them money he returned to find his mobile had been taken from the hallway and the two ‘carollers’ were nowhere to be found.

One of the suspects is described as white, around 18, slim and around 5ft 10ins tall. The other was white, around 16, also slim and around 5ft 4ins, wearing a grey top and had a swarthy complexion.

Inspector Julie Dodge of Kent Police said: "This is a particularly callous crime, preying on the seasonal goodwill of victims.

"These individuals show an entire lack of Christmas spirit, especially as they are willing to steal money intended by these residents to go to a very worthwhile charity.

"I would urge homeowners to be vigilant of these carolling rogues and double check identification of those claiming to be collecting on behalf of any charity."

Anyone suspicious should call Kent Police on 101.

Those who know the identity of the pair should also contact police on the above number.