Hammer-wielding burglars forced their way into a man's home and attacked him.

The three suspects are still at large and police are appealing for information following the night-time raid in Nettlestead, near Maidstone, three days ago.

Wearing scarves to cover their mouth and noses, the men forced their way into the home, near Maidstone Road, at around 10.30pm.

It is reported they were armed with hammers and that the victim was immediately assaulted, amid demands for cash and other items.

During the incident the victim managed to run outside and raise the alarm with neighbours.

The suspects fled the scene and were seen running down Bishops Close before making their escape in a dark coloured vehicle.

Police and paramedics attended and the victim was taken to hospital and treated for injuries. He was later discharged.

The investigation is being led by the chief constable’s crime squad and detectives are appealing for drivers who may have been in or around the area to check dash cams for anything suspicious.

Residents with CCTV or doorbell cameras are also urged to review any footage which may assist inquiries.

This is the third violent burglary to have happened in a rural area in the space of a few weeks.

On August 29, an armed burglar forced his way into a property in Marden and threatened a woman before stealing money, watches, and items of jewellery.

Police responded to reports of the break-in at the address between Linton Hill and Staplehurst Road by sending armed officers and scrambling the force helicopter.

Four days later on September 2, two masked thugs broke into the property in Chantler's Hill, Paddock Wood , after breaking glass from patio doors.

Joan Stone, a woman in her 80s, suffered a facial injury after she was beaten with the barrel of an antique firearm.

Her partner John Miles, 78, cut his knee after being forced to kneel on broken glass during the traumatic break-in.

Ms Stone described how she thought she was going to die when a masked burglar held a gun to her head.

Jewellery was also taken from the couple's bedroom and money stolen from the Ms Stone's purse before the two men fled scene.

Police say the three incidents are not being treated as linked.

Anyone with information about the night-time raid in Nettlestead is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/164754/20 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form.

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