Bungling burglars tipped off police after accidentally pulling an emergency cord while they ransacked a home.

The thieves broke into the house in Tichfield Close, Maidstone at around 9pm on Tuesday, September 9.

The home was linked up to a company called Invicta Telecare via a cord, which homeowners could pull if there is a problem.

The thieves pulled the cord, which could have been mistaken for a light switch, and unknown to them were connected to a call centre where worker Lauren Measter raised the alarm.

When she could not get a response from the resident, who is in his 60s, she feared he needed help and announced via the alarm unit which is clearly audible throughout the flat that she was going to call an ambulance.

Listening for any signs of a response she picked up voices and heard "Derek, they're going to call an Ambulance, let's go" and realised that the property was actually being broken into.

She called the police immediately giving full details about the burglary and they attended with blue lights flashing.

Wendy Turner, Invicta Telecare's Operation Director said: "The intruders had obviously pulled the alarm pull cord mistaking it for a light cord.

"When the police arrived they confirmed a break in via a window which had been smashed."

Police dogs searched the area and picked up a trail which led to a cash box and a pair of discarded gloves.

Forensic testing is now being carried out.

If you have any information about this crime contact Maidstone police 01622 690055, or call anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.