A man distracted an elderly woman at her door while an accomplice snuck inside and stole her savings.

The caller, who claimed to be fixing a neighbour’s fence, knocked on her door saying he needed access to her property in High Beeches, Banstead, at 1pm last Wednesday.

While the woman in her 80s was being distracted outside, an accomplice went into the property and took about £800.

The decoy had a medium build and short light hair and spoke with a local accent. He was white and wore a shirt and trousers.

Detective Constable Ian Cherrington said: "I believe this was a well-planned and targeted offence and anyone who has information which will help us bring the offenders to justice is urged to contact officers with information.

"Crimes against the elderly and most vulnerable members of our society are inexcusable and we will do all we can to pursue offenders and we will do all we can to find those responsible.

"I would ask anyone with elderly family, friends or neighbours to ensure they are aware of the dangers cold callers can pose and to remind them to remain vigilant."

Anyone with information should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference RB/13/7716, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

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