Police are investigating a huge spike in reports of vehicles being broken into across Sittingbourne.

Kemsley is the worst affected area, with more than 25 cars targeted by thieves, many of them on the same night.

Other break ins have been reported in Milton Regis and Eden Village.

Between 5.30am and 6am on Tuesday, police received reports of theft of clothing and tools from five cars in Beauvoir Drive, Kemsley.

A man was seen trying car handles before running off.

He is described as white, 15 to 25 years old, 5ft 8in, and of medium build. He wore a blue bomber jacket and dark trousers.

Over the same night, items including a satellite navigation device were stolen from cars in Meteor Close and Pastime Close, Milton Regis, and Merleburgh Drive, Kemsley.

In Bale Grove, Kemsley, at least seven vehicles were targeted in one night over the festive period, while more in Newman Drive, Saxon Shore and Eadred Drive were also tampered with.

In Eden Village, a handbag was stolen from a vehicle in Primrose Avenue between New Year's Day and Monday.

Over the same period, sunglasses were swiped from another parked in neighbouring Iris Drive.

Police reminded people to lock their cars and remove valuables.

Inspector Gavin Wade said: "There are a number of steps which can be taken to help prevent items being stolen from motor vehicles.

"Ensure vehicles are locked securely. Remote locking with a car key should be double-checked to ensure it has worked.

"Remove all valuables from vehicles, including tools, satellite navigation devices, mobile phones and any other items which may be attractive to thieves.

"Have valuables security marked so it makes them harder to sell on if they are stolen."

Anyone with information about thefts should call police on 01795 419119. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.