CRIMINALS are being urged to tip-off detectives hunting two “contemptible” suspects in the murder of a Kent pensioner.

Police have released an e-fit based on a description the victim gave before she died.

Margaret Hawkins, who was in her 80s, collapsed and died in hospital after she was pushed onto a couch by two intruders at her home in Charterhouse Road, Orpington.

The e-fit shows the first suspect, who from descriptions given by Margaret and other witnesses could weigh up to 20 to 25 stone.

Also released are two computer drawings, which help to show the size of the suspects.

Ass Det Ch Insp Russell Taylor, who is leading the murder hunt, said: “Margaret’s death is being treated as murder and my team is dedicated to bringing such contemptible people who target vulnerable members of our society to justice. The people who commit crimes targeting people like Margaret are likely to be known within the criminal circles and I would appeal to this particular community to contact us with information.”

He added: “One of the offenders is very large and he with his accomplice would have caused great distress to Margaret as they forced her back in her home to steal from her. I ask people to look at the e-fit and to contact us if they recognise the person or if they were in the Charterhouse Road area on Friday.”

Police are also keen to trace a red flat back van that was seen in the Charterhouse Road area. The van was being driven slowly past properties at about midday on Friday, November 16, the day Margaret was attacked.

The first man is very heavily built or overweight, with brown cropped hair and a swept fringe. He wore a white or light grey T-shirt and dark jogging bottoms.

The second is of slim to medium build, with brown hair. He wore a dark T-shirt and dark jogging bottoms.

Anyone who can assist should call the murder incident room on 020 8721 4155 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.