Canaries and finches pinched from an Aylesford garden have been recovered by police.

At least 30 birds were reported stolen from outbuildings near London Road between March 15 and 16.

Police believe the thieves behind the crime levered a shed door open to gain access to cages inside.

The crooks went on to raid separate aviaries, before fleeing the scene.

Yesterday, officers from the Rural Task Force spotted a suspicious vehicle while at a property in Kent Road, Snodland.

They then discovered the stolen bird cages and an aviary in the back garden.

A number of birds were seized, taken to an animal sanctuary and identified as some of the flock stolen from Aylesford a week before.

A 34-year-old man from Snodland was arrested on suspicion of theft and later released, pending further investigation.