POLICE have issued a warning after burglars posing as builders pinched jewellery from an elderly woman’s house.

A property in Orford was targeted in the distraction burglary on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 12.

At some point between 2.30pm and 3pm, a cold caller claiming to be a builder knocked on the door of the pensioner’s house on Keswick Crescent.

He told the grandma he wanted to speak about cavity wall insulation, and asked if he and a colleague could come in.

She allowed the pair in and they told her about work they claimed was needed, before stating they needed to look around the property.

While the pair made their way through the house, the victim received a call from her granddaughter who told her she was coming over - at which point the offenders left.

Her son and granddaughter visited a short time later, and discovered that the men had stolen a number of items from the property - including jewellery and bank statements.

The man who knocked on the door is described as being white, in his mid-30s and around 5ft8 tall with a proportionate build.

He had short, fair hair and was wearing a beige jacket, a dark shirt and dark trousers.

PC Sonya Kheir said: “Distraction burglaries are despicable crimes which target the most vulnerable people in our community, and we are committed to doing all we can to trace those responsible and bring them to justice.

“Enquiries in relation to this incident are ongoing, and we are currently following a number of lines of enquiry - including speaking to residents and forensics.

“As part of the investigation, I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area and saw anything that may be relevant to our investigation.

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“I also want to speak to anyone who recognises the description of the suspect and thinks they may know who he is.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents to be vigilant of anyone who comes to your door offering to carry out work, and to urge people to report any suspicious activity to us immediately on 101.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 345222, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.