A fuel thief operating at night has wrecked two cars belonging to a teacher before returning to steal petrol from their replacement hire car.

Catherine Lockett, from Langley, was unaware her car was leaking fuel as she took her young son to a swimming session on Thursday, March 14.

The 42-year-old had earlier received a phone call from her partner who experienced a similar issue on the way to work.

The couple then realised they had fallen victim to the petrol thief who later drilled holes into the fuel tank of their hire car.

Mrs Lockett said: "I was driving my little boy to swimming and I was doing 40mph on a country road and the petrol light started flashing. I thought it was strange as I had only just filled the car up.

"I managed to turn off the road into a forecourt and into a mechanics where I asked for help.

"The mechanic said the petrol was coming out and he showed me what appeared to be three drilled holes in my fuel tank.

"My partner looked at his own car and the same thing had happened to him."

Mrs Lockett and her partner were told one of their cars could have to be written off and the couple were forced to rent a replacement car.

However, the thief returned and had also targeted their neighbours in Sutton Road.

Mrs Lockett said: "The hire car was on our drive overnight and we then discovered the same thing had happened to the hire car.

"We were starting to think it was a personal attack. I was upset and shocked the first time and then I was unsettled and angry."

Kent Police has launched investigation following five separate reports of petrol and diesel being stolen from vehicles in Shepway, Langley and Bearsted between March 14 and 18.

All of the thefts took place during hours of darkness, after holes were drilled into the vehicles' fuel tanks and car owners have been advised by police to remain alert.

Inspector Mark Hedges, from Maidstone's community safety unit said: "While we carry out enquiries to identify the suspects, I would urge people to be vigilant and if they see anyone acting suspiciously around cars or vans to call us immediately 999.

"If feasible, car owners should also take precautions by parking in a garage, on a private driveway or well-lit area covered by CCTV."

Anyone with information is asked to call 01622 604100 quoting reference 17-0819 or to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.