POLICE are appealing for information after two women in their 80s were the victims of distraction burglaries on the same day in a Kent town.

The first incident took place at 2.50pm on Wednesday in Friezland Road, Tunbridge Wells. The victim opened her door to a man who claimed to be from the water board and needed to check the water.

While the man was with the woman in the kitchen a second man appeared. After the men left the woman realised money had been taken from her purse in her handbag.

The second incident happened at 5pm in Birken Road, Tunbridge Wells.

Two men called at another elderly woman's home claiming to be from the water board. They went into the kitchen with the woman and openly went through cupboards and drawers but then left without taking anything.

The man who called at the door on Friezland Road is described as white, between 20 and 30, with short, mousey-coloured hair. He was wearing an open-necked shirt and a dark-blue pullover.

Police say they believe the burglaries are linked.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01732 329217 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.