A hunt has been launched for a pair of crooks who targeted a couple in their home.

Kent Police are appealing to trace two suspects who carried out a distraction burglary at a property in St Michaels near Tenterden.

Officers have today released computer generated images of the men they want to question.

They are asking for the public's help in identifying the pair who carried out the raid at a house in Ashford Road in the village on Thursday, July 14.

The couple reported the pair knocked on their door at around 8pm and saw two men standing outside.

After gesturing for the woman, aged in her 60s who answered the door, to come out and speak to them, she went and talked to the men.

Her husband joined her outside to talk about a piece of furniture in the garden.

It is reported they then heard a noise from inside the house and realised one of the men had disappeared and was no longer outside.

The first man ran away and the victims have reported seeing the second man leaving the house.

They then noticed a large blue handbag containing a purse with cash, a bank card, car keys and a mobile phone was missing.

"Distraction burglars will often work in pairs and one will divert the attention of their victims while an accomplice is free to explore the rest of the home." Det Con Roz Friend, Kent Police

The first man was described as white in his 20s and around 5ft 9ins tall with an average build.

He is said to have a distinctive nose, short dark hair and wearing a black leather jacket and blue jeans.

The second man was also white and aged in his 20s and about 5ft 8ins tall with a skinny build. He also had short dark hair and was wearing a black leather jacket.

Both men spoke with Irish accents.

Det Con Roz Friend, the investigating officer, said: "We ask anyone who recognises this pair to contact us.

"Distraction burglars will often work in pairs and one will divert the attention of their victims while an accomplice is free to explore the rest of the home and search for valuables.

"Remember, never let strangers into your home before you have checked who they are. Make sure your windows and doors are secure.

"If you have any concerns about someone who has called at your door, call police immediately."

Anyone with information can contact police on 01843 222289 quoting ZY/23809/16.