A man in his 80s was attacked when three people forced their way into his home and stole jewellery.

The victim, who lives in Gordon Road, Gillingham, was woken up to a knock on his front door at around 2am this morning.

A woman claimed she was unwell and needed to use his telephone before she assaulted the man and pushed him against a wall.

Two men then entered the house and the victim was made to sit on the sofa before they went through his pockets.

They removed the jewellery he was wearing and also took a safe which had a large quantity of jewellery inside.

During the incident the victim was also kicked in the leg.

The suspects ran out of the house taking the safe with them and are believed to have made off in a vehicle.

The woman is described as being white, around 5ft 7ins tall, with an eastern European accent and long brown hair in a bun. She was wearing a light coloured jacket.

One of the men is described as being around 6ft tall and wearing a blue hooded top with the hood up, and the other is described as being around 5ft 7ins tall.

All three suspects are said to be aged between 35 and 40 years-old.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01634 792209, quoting reference 16-0095, or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.