An animal charity boss says he's been left "gutted" after vital equipment was taken when a vehicle was stolen containing it.

The Vauxhall Astra van was stolen from a property in Dartford at 3am yesterday morning and police are investigating.

Wayne May, director at Artisan Rare Breeds and Animal Rescue, said: "It's just one of those things. I am just thankful that no animals or people were hurt."

He said the van had tools and equipment inside which the charity use to rescue animals such as ladders and dog crates.

Wayne added: "We are gutted really. Same as anyone having a vehicle stolen."

Kent Police received a report a car had been taken at 5.54am from a property in Greenhithe on September 14.

The registered charity specialises in raising rare breeds for conservation as well as providing wildlife and animal rescues.

The Dartford-based centre works across the UK in partnership with Animal Protection Services and other agencies to investigate and rescue animals.

The charity also offers rehoming services with the process taking around 12 weeks to suitably place an animal in the care of applicants.

The vehicle has not yet been identified and the charity has asked people keep their eyes open for it.

Police investigations into the stolen car are ongoing, a spokesman said.

Anyone with information can phone Kent Police on 01474 366149 quoting 46/176033/21 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

Read more: All the latest news from Dartford