Most recent news from Kent Police is a warning on their website about a series of 'distraction thefts' in shops and offices in Tunbridge Wells, Westerham, Sevenoaks, Larkfield, Swanley and Edenbridge, resulting in the loss of mobile phones and cash.

Many of the incidents involved two women of dark European appearance, who engage their victims in conversation by asking them to swap money from the till.

Investigating officer, DC Matthew Hulbert, warned Kent businesses about these opportunitistic crimes and to be on their guard, especially if asked to change money or distracted by conversation.

Whilst it is, obviously, impossible for shops to prevent strangers from entering the premises, they should ensure that any CCTV cameras are fully operational and offices are advised to monitor their access control systems carefully.