A device used by fraudsters to steal bank card details has been found in a town centre cash machine.

Police are now warning customers to be particularly vigilant when using ATMs after what is described as a skimmer or Lebanese loop was found in Calverly Road in Tunbridge Wells by a shopper who tried to use a machine and handed it in to bank staff.

The incident was reported to police at around 10am today.

Sgt Richard Pringle said: "We are reminding people to be vigilant around cash machines. If it appears to have been tampered with report it immediately to the to the bank or contact police. People should always cover the PIN keypad as they enter their number. If you insert your card and it appears to be retained or jammed, check the fascia and notify your service provider immediately."

Skimming devices are said to read card details without alerting cardholders whereas Lebanese loops appear to swallow cards.

Anyone who notices suspicious activity around cash machines is urged to call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Police are asking anyone with information about the cash machine in Tunbridge Wells to phone 01622 604100 or call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference number YY/009512/18.