An elderly disabled woman's handbag has been stolen in a distraction burglary after a conman claimed his dog had been run over.

The thief knocked on her door in Arnold Road, Margate, between 11am and 11.30am on Friday.

The woman, in her 70s, invited the man in and offered to call a vet.

Detective Inspector Kath Way said: "The man was cradling a dog in his arms and asked the woman for help.

"She offered to call the vet and he followed her into her living room but before she could make the call he left.

"A short time later she realised her handbag was missing."

The man is described as white, with black hair and dark clothing. He was aged between 25 and 35 and had a foreign accent.

"Distraction thieves prey on a person’s good nature..." DI Way

DI Way added: "Distraction thieves prey on a person’s good nature and often ask the occupant for a glass of water or to use the phone so they can gain access.

"Using a dog as a ruse is not so common."

She urged people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours and relatives.

Police are appealing for any witnesses that saw a man matching the description in the Arnold Road area on Friday or has information about the burglary.

Call police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511 quoting reference number ZY/13208/16.