A pair of burglars who stole power tools from a building site, and then tried to destroy evidence of the raid by pouring milk and water on video equipment, have been jailed.

Matthew Cook and Michael Diamond took power generators, materials and tools worth thousands of pounds over two nights in March when they broke into storage containers at a new housing development in Knights Way, Tunbridge Wells.

The duo also broke into offices and caused damage to computers during attempts to destroy any video evidence.

But CCTV captured them in the act on both nights. The men were later arrested after officers identified them from the images.

When Cook was arrested a text message from an associate was found on his phone. It said he had seen Cook on a Facebook appeal posted by the victim, and that he should have covered up his face.

Appearing at Maidstone Crown Court, both men pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary, as well as a count of destroying property.

Cook, 39, of Caley Road, Tunbridge Wells was jailed for two years and two months. Diamond, 37, of Burslem Road, Tunbridge Wells, was sentenced to 20 months in prison.

Sergeant Dave Higham said: "Cook and Diamond targeted the site, knowing it would be closed over the Easter break.

"In an effort to cover their tracks they also caused considerable damage to computers in the offices.

"We found puddles on the floor next to the computers and it is believed that water, milk and a fire extinguisher were used to cause damage to the hard drives.

"Unfortunately for them we have been able to use CCTV footage, which clearly places them both at scene.

"Burglary is never a victimless crime, regardless if it is on a private of commercial property and I’m pleased the courts have now delivered the right verdicts in passing these custodial sentences."