DETECTIVES investigating the murders of an elderly Kent couple say they have received about 20 "positive leads" following a new appeal for information.

The bodies of Terry and Vera Martin were found in their home in Abbey Street, Faversham, on Wednesday, January 25.

Police spoke to more than 900 drivers during a roadside appeal on Wednesday night at the junctions of the Western Link and Bysingwood roads, close to the spot where the couple’s distinctive lilac metallic car was found burning at 6pm on Monday, January 23.

Officers displayed a replica of the Daihatsu Sirion car under floodlights for drivers to see in the hope it will jog someone’s memory and lead to further information about where the car may have travelled from Saturday, January 21 up to the point when it was burned out.

Det Chief Inspector Martin Harris, who is leading the inquiry, said: “We had a terrific response to our appeal and officers spoke to hundreds of drivers. As a result we’re now following up 20 positive leads.

“Two people who saw the appeal on television also came down and joined the queue of traffic so they could give information to police.

“It is still very important to us that anyone who might have information about this car comes forward and talks to us. Anyone who thinks they saw the car in the Faversham or Whitstable areas between that Saturday and Monday should call us.

“Maybe they saw the car being driven erratically, or they noticed it was missing from outside the couple’s home in Abbey Street and the cones the couple used to keep their parking space weren’t there. If you remember anything, please contact us at the incident room.”

Police handed out leaflets to drivers containing the incident room number – 01622 654860.

The colour of the car is so unusual, the nearest available model had to be obtained from Newcastle 300 miles away. The car was fitted with number plates bearing the same registration mark as the Martins’ vehicle – GK54 XJM.

A 21-year-old man from Faversham has been was charged with the murders of Terry and Vera Martin.

Brett Clifton, from Beckett Street, Faversham, was remanded in custody on January 30 by Sittingbourne magistrates. He is now due to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on February 13.

One adult and three juveniles, who were arrested by Kent Police on Friday January 27 have been released on police bail.