The man police want to speak to is pictured buying bottles of drink and paying for fuel at a petrol station in Staplehurst

Police investigating a brutal attack on an elderly woman in her own home have released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to.

The pictures show a car being driven into the Total garage in Cranbrook Road, Staplehurst, and the driver paying for fuel and two bottles of drink in the kiosk.

Detectives believe he may have information which could prove crucial to their investigation into an assualt on Jean Thomas.

They insist the man is a possible witness in the case, not a suspect.

The man is pictured driving into the Total garage in Cranbrook Road

Burglars broke into Mrs Thomas' home in Hallwards, Staplehurst, on October 26 before attacking her.

The 78-year-old suffered head wounds and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Local businessman Fergus Wilson has already offered a £10,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible.

Jean Thomas suffered facial injuries in the assault in October

DC Adam Denny of Kent Police said: "We're very keen to speak with the man pictured as he may have seen or heard something that could help us further our investigation and trace the suspects.

"I'd like anyone who can help with us with our enquiries to contact me on 01622 604243 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."