High-value cars have been stolen in a spate of burglaries around north and west Kent.

A number of vehicles have been taken from outside homes over the last fortnight, leading to a police appeal for people to protect themselves against thieves by not leaving car keys in view.

Firstly, a Porsche, as well as keys to another vehicle, was stolen from outside a property in Luddesdown, near Gravesend, on November 13, and while the car has since been recovered, designer watches remain missing.

On the same day a Jaguar was stolen from an address in Bowesden Lane, Shorne, after thieves broke into a house and stole keys as well as a number of other items.

Other break-ins have been reported in areas including Portland Avenue, Gravesend, where a Mercedes C-class was stolen and in Cobham Street, Gravesend which led to the theft of a Range Rover.

Similar offences have also been reported in Larkfield, as a BMW was stolen after a raid in Hornbeam Close, and a Seat from New Hythe Lane after entry was forced to a property's front door in the early hours of this morning (Thursday).

Inspector Katie Reed, from the Gravesham Community Safety Unit, said: "Burglars are opportunist thieves, who will be on the lookout for easy properties to target.

"Residents can help to protect themselves by making sure keys, cash and expensive items are not visible from the outside their homes.

"It is also important to store electronic car keys in a signal blocking pouch so they can’t be scanned by criminals.

"Other ways in which people can protect themselves against thieves include double-locking uPVC doors and windows, using timer switches on lights and radios to make it look as though someone is home."

Anyone with information about any of these offences is asked to call Kent Police on 01474 366149.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555 111, or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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