Update: Missing children found safe

A police helicopter is still searching for two children who have been reported missing from the Strood area, amid rumours they were snatched in the early hours.

Officers were called to the Liberty Park housing development in Wainscott shortly after 8am after reports the youngsters had disappeared.

Police say the children are believed to be with a relative and officers have conducted searches in Medway and Gravesend with help from the National Police Air Service.

It has not been revealed how old the children are, or if they are boys or girls.

However, there is speculation on social media forums that the children were taken from the estate off Hoo Road, by two women at about 6.30am.

Officers in patrol cars are also searching the area for the pair and have been seen at a nearby school and circling the housing estate.

Police spokesman James Walker said: “Kent Police received a report that two children were missing from the Wainscott area at 8.07am.

“Enquiries to locate them are ongoing and the National Police Air Service is providing assistance.”

Police have now confirmed the children are thought to be with a relative.

Mr Walker added: "The children are believed to be with a relative and officers have conducted searches in the Medway and Gravesend areas."