A burglar who led police on a motorway chase in a stolen Jaguar after raiding two Co-op stores is facing jail.

Martin Bamford, 28, stole two vehicles parked at the same address in Hythe Road, Sittingbourne, on different days in March.

The first - a transit van - he used as the getaway vehicle when he burgled the Co-op in Newington High Street, on March 10.

He made off with a stash of cigarettes after smashing the front window of the shop.

On March 16, Bamford, of Dagnall Park, South Norwood, again targeted a Co-op, this time in Reculver Road, Herne Bay, and stole more cigarettes.

He was spotted driving away from the scene in a Jaguar at around 1am and police were called.

Officers pursued him down the M2 before he was stopped near the Bean interchange and arrested.

It was then discovered the Jaguar was the second car stolen in Sittingbourne.

Bamford appeared at Medway Magistrates Court on Tuesday, when he pleaded guilty to six offences. He will be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court at a later date.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Rob Harper said: “Meticulous detective work allowed us to build up evidence against Bamford very quickly and charge and remand him the same day he was arrested.

“Knowing the strength of the evidence against him, he pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and is now awaiting sentencing.

“However, we believe two other men were also involved in these offences and are asking for the public’s assistance in tracking them down.

“They wore dark clothing, including hooded tops and balaclavas or scarves.”

Anyone with information is asked to DS Harper on 01795 419264, or call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.