DETECTIVES are appealing for information about an incident in which a man attempted to rob a 23-year-old woman.

Police say the woman was walking along Benden Close, Staplehurst, at about 9.30pm on Wednesday, October 4, when she was approached by a man who allegedly asked her to hand over money.

When she said she had none, he is alleged to have searched the woman for other property before running off empty-handed in the direction of the Hurst Close estate.

The man is described as being white, between 16-18 years old, around 5ft 9 with a slim build. At the time he was wearing a navy blue hoody with a motif on the back. He was also said to have a distinctive tobacco smell.

Police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed this incident, in particular the occupants of a vehicle, believed to be a red Vauxhall Astra, which reportedly passed by at the time.

Anyone with any further information is asked to contact Maidstone police station on 01622 604180 or call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.