WEST Kent Police are appealing for witnesses to the theft of a pensioner's handbag during an incident at Five Oak Green, near Paddock Wood.

It took place on the B2017 Five Oak Green Road at about 6.30pm on Wednesday. A 73-year-old woman was walking along the road when she was approached from behind by a man who grabbed her handbag from her shoulder.

He ran towards a car which was parked opposite the Riverdale Motor Company. The man then drove off in the direction of Five Oak Green village and turned left along Whetsted Road.

The same man may also have been seen in the village between 9am and 1pm on Sunday, May 19. He is described as a white male, 25-30 years old and 5ft 7ins tall. He has a mop of black or dark coloured hair, a tanned or olive complexion, and is of stocky build. He was wearing a jacket and light coloured trousers. The car he drove away was a biscuit coloured small saloon car.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Dave Leadbeater at West Kent Police on 01732 370636, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to leave their name.