Distraction thieves have stolen a large amount of cash from an elderly man in Ramsgate.

The pair, who he had already paid to do some gardening work, said a tree at his Margate Road home needed urgent work.

But between 7pm and 7.25pm on yesterday they took the cash from his house.

One of the suspects is white with a stocky build, 5ft 9in to 5ft 10in tall, and aged 40 to 50 years old.

Police have warned others to be on their guard against cold callers.

PC Peter Frampton explains: "Reputable companies do not tend to cold-call offering to provide gardening, building, roofing or driveway tarmac services.

"If people feel intimidated by cold callers they should call 999 and ask for police assistance.

"Always ask to see identification before allowing people into your homes, if you have instructed work to be carried out and they do ask for money please do not show them where you keep your money."

Police would like to hear from anyone in the Thanet area who may have been cold-called about tree work/gardening.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Peter Frampton on 01843 222289. Alternatively, if you have information but would prefer to remain anonymous call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting crime reference ZY/40437/16.