A woman was sprayed in the face with a mystery liquid after waking up to find three masked men in her home.

A hunt is now on for the suspects, who discarded a ladder as they fled the house in Peacock Street, Gravesend, at 4.45am.

Two of the gang sprayed the victim with a noxious substance before running away.

The group ran out of the property towards Saddington Street.

Police were called and searched the area before finding the ladder near a church in the same road.

They also found a blue and grey Mercedes Vito van with privacy glass on the back windows. The vehicle is believed to have been used by the offenders.

The three suspects were wearing black trousers and black hooded tops.

They also had their faces covered and are believed to be in their late teens to early 20s.

The victim is currently in hospital being treated for minor injuries.

Police are urging residents to check their CCTV and anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01474 366149 quoting reference 46/137256/20.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend