Burglars tricked their way to stealing a safe from an elderly couple, only to find it contained two old bus passes.

A husband and wife, both aged 81, were at home in Roche Walk, Carshalton, on Wednesday, October 11, at about 2pm when they answered their door to a man who claimed he wanted to check their drains and water supply.

While in the property he checked out the bedroom where the safe was kept.

He picked up the safe, made his excuses, and left by the front door. About an hour later the couple noticed their safe had gone missing.

The safe contained two old bus passes and some paperwork.

The suspect is described as a white man, aged 25 to 30, and about 5ft 10ins tall.

He had dark brown wavy hair, brown eyes and an English accent.

He was wearing smart dark trousers and a dark jacket.

PC Duncan Harris, crime prevention Officer, at Sutton Police Station, said: “Burglaries that involve bogus workman tricking their way into the homes of elderly and vulnerable residents to steal their belongings are despicable crimes.

"Always ask for ID and check out whether they are genuine by calling the organisation they say they represent whilst keeping them shut outside. If in doubt, keep them out - and phone police immediately on 999.”

Anyone with information can contact Sutton police station on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.