Pensioners targeted by distraction burglars

A man called at a house in Heathfield Gardens last Friday between 5.30-6.30pm and told the occupants he was acting on behalf of a neighbour who had been experiencing problems with flooding.

He claimed he needed to come in and turn the water off.

The man was let into the house and whilst he spoke to the couple in the kitchen, it is believed two other men entered the property and stole a quantity of cash from upstairs.

All three then fled the scene.

The men were described as white, aged 16-17 years old and between 5ft2" and 5ft7" tall.

Last week the Observer reported how a man walked into the home of a pensioner in Market Square, Battle, and stole a purse containing 60 and jewellery from upstairs whilst the occupant was in the kitchen.

When confronted, the intruder shook the victim's hand, made some excuses and left.

The incident happened on May 1 and came hours after a vulnerable woman had her handbag stolen from her home in Bexhill, whilst she and her husband were in the house.

Police are linking all three incidents.

Sergeant Dan Russell, of Battle police, said: "If anyone claims to be from the waterboard or a similar agency, please, if in any doubt, do not let them in and contact the police immediately."

Anyone with any information about the above incidents is asked to call Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999.