Detectives investigating a series of burglaries in Kent have issued two e-fits of men they want the public’s help in identifying.

A number of break-ins have been reported in the Sevenoaks and Tonbridge areas, as well as in rural parts of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells in recent weeks.

Others have been reported in the neighbouring Meopham area.

Residents in these areas are being asked to report any suspicious activity to police, as well as ensure their property is secure.

Kent Police Ch Sup Des Keers said: "Kent Police’s autumn campaign to disrupt burglars and bring suspects before the courts resulted in 78 fewer burglaries compared with the same three-week period last year.

"More than 70 suspects were arrested and one man was sentenced to five years for stealing jewellery from the Sevenoaks area.

"But we are not complacent and continue to target those suspected of committing offences in the run-up to Christmas. We have a number of offences under investigation, typically in affluent areas such as Longfield and Seal where two e-fits have been created.’

The man seen in Longfield on 18 October is described as being very pale-skinned with freckles. Anyone who is able to identify him is asked to contact Kent Police quoting reference YY/21093/14.

The man spotted in Seal, near Sevenoaks, on 16 September was white and reportedly had a smooth face. Anyone able to identify him should quote reference YY/18890/14.

Ch Supt Keers added: "I’d like to reassure the residents of Kent that additional patrols have been tasked to the areas where crime has been reported. Our detectives are working with officers in neighbouring forces on a number of lines of enquiry.

"We’d also like to appeal to residents to help us, by looking out for their neighbours’ properties this Christmas. Keep your own valuables out of sight and report any suspicious activity to us.

"For example, if you see gloves, a scarf or a mobile phone discarded by the side of the road or in a hedge then call 101. Such items may be useful evidence in our ongoing investigation. Similarly if you any suspicious vehicles - particularly a BMW, an Audi or a light-coloured Ford Focus ST - or people tampering with number plates then contact us so we can investigate.’

For crime prevention advice, including Kent Police’s seasonal video Don’t Let Them Mess With Your Head, visitwww.kent.police.uk/burglary