Police have launched an investigation after graves were vandalised at a Jewish cemetery.

Officers were called just after 5.30pm on Tuesday to reports the headstones had been damaged in the burial grounds of Chatham Memorial Synagogue in the High Street, Rochester.

It is believed the memorials were knocked to the ground and smashed between Saturday and Monday night. The incident happened just before the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur.

Stephen Silverman, director of investigations and enforcement at Campaign Against Antisemitism, said: “This cowardly act of vandalism must not go unpunished. "We are grateful to Kent Police for their swift response.”

Officers are investigating the incident and are asking for anyone who may have information to call 01634 792209 quoting crime reference: 46/194406/19.