A pensioner has been targeted in dinnertime distraction burglary in Folkestone, sparking a police warning.

The incident reportedly took place at an address in Princess Street at around 6pm on Saturday (June 9).

A woman asked the victim, a man in his 70s, if she could enter his home to use the toilet.

After she left, he discovered his wallet containing cash and bank cards was missing.

The victim then found it empty on the floor in a nearby road.

The suspect is described as white with tanned skin, around 6ft tall and in her early 30s.

She was wearing ripped jeans and had dark hair.

Inspector Paul Barrell says it could happen to anyone though: "Whilst we investigate this burglary and carry out CCTV enquiries we would urge residents to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to us immediately.

"Distraction thieves prey on a person’s good nature and often ask the occupant for a glass of water or to use the phone or toilet as a distraction technique.

"There are many ways you can protect yourself including making sure rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering your front door, fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms and always checking the ID of cold callers.

"Don’t be afraid to turn people away regardless of their reason for knocking on your door."

Anyone who recognises the woman’s description or who has information about the incident should call 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number ZY/032476/18.