A vicious thief stole jewellery and cash after punching a woman in her 80s to the ground in her own home.

The callous intruder forced his way into the victim's property in Snodland before striking her in the face, the blow causing her to collapse to the floor.

He then threatened her and demanded cash before fleeing the address in Birling Road.

The robbery took place on Friday at around 7.20pm and the woman was found a while after by a neighbour who then called the police.

Investigating officer PC Chris Welham said: "We are issuing photographs of two bracelets, a necklace with a pendant and a watch that were taken during the incident, along with other jewellery.

"While we are completing enquiries in the area, including the review of available CCTV, we would like to hear from anybody who is offered or has unsuspectingly bought any of these items.

"The stolen cash consists of older style, paper, £20 notes. While these are still legal tender, we are urging any local residents or businesses who are offered a quantity of these, to contact the appeal line."

Officers investigating the violent robbery hope to speak to a woman who was jogging along the road at the time and may have passed the suspect when he was outside the front of the victim's home.

The suspect is described as being white, short, of medium to large build, and in his late 30s or early 40s.

Further distinctive jewellery reported stolen includes a charm bracelet with a spherical moon charm, a snake-shaped bangle, a ring with a Union Jack and a medal commemorating the sinking of the RMS Lusitania.

Anybody with information is asked to call 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/11496/21.

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