Police are appealing for information after a woman had her purse taken in a distraction burglary.

It is thought a man knocked on a door of a flat in Trinity Square, Margate, between 3.10am and 3.25am on Monday.

Reports suggest a man, who was claiming to be a worker from the council, arrived at the property and told the owner her water and lights had to be turned off due to some ongoing work.

The elderly woman let the man in and noticed her purse had been taken shortly after he had left.

The suspect is white, 5ft 6ins tall, medium build with short black hair, wearing a black zipped up jacket and spoke with an Irish accent.

Officers say residents should lock back doors and windows before answering the door, use spy holes, check ID before letting anyone in.

Anyone who believes they have information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222 289 quoting ZY/045948/16.