TWO young women were raped in Dartford town centre early today in separate incidents. The attacks happened within three hours of each other and it is believed two men were involved in the first attack.

A 21-year-old woman was walking from the Litten Tree pub in Spittal Street to the Zen nightclub at around 12.45am when she was approached by the two men. She was raped by both of them.

Three hours later the same two men this time accompanied by a third man attacked a 17-year-old girl. The teenager was leaving the Business Pub with two friends but was separated from them.

She was dragged into a car and driven around Dartford while the third man raped her in the back of the car. She was later dumped at the Total Petrol Station in Burnham Road.

The attackers are described as black or Asian men between 23 and 26. Prominent features include a chipped front tooth, a goatee beard and one wearing a large neck chain with a large cross on it. It is thought the attackers used a silver Volkswagen car.

DCI Martin Harris, of Kent Police said: "Public safety is paramount to the police and we will be providing an increased presence in the area.

"We are also appealing for any witnesses to the attacks to come forward or any people with information as to the attackers identities to contact the incident room on 01322 283137 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."