Ashford pensioner becomes victim of distraction burglary

He was let into the house and went upstairs and turned on some taps before coming back downstairs into the living room.

He then grabbed the victim's black handbag which had a kangaroo symbol and pushed her to the ground, before running away towards Percy Avenue, getting away with £400 in cash.

The woman did not receive any injuries when she fell, but she was reported to be distressed.

Detective constable Kieran Gamble, who is investigating the crime, said: "These kinds of burglaries are despicable because the offenders deliberately target the most vulnerable members of society.

"Fortunately on this occasion the victim was not harmed by the suspect but this was obviously a very distressing experience for her.

"Residents should ensure that they make use of door chains, but we will, of course, do all we can to locate this offender and to investigate this matter fully."

The suspect was described as a white male between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build, in his early 20s, with curly black hair, and wearing a striped jumper.

The police believe there was a second man keeping watch near the house, who is described as a slim white male in his early 20s between 6ft and 6ft 2ins tall, wearing a dark waterproof jacket and dark trousers with short blond or ginger hair.

Officers have attended the woman's home and carried out house to house enquiries and are in the process of reviewing CCTV footage.

Scene of crime officers also attended to carry out forensics.

Previously, Brendan Collins, detective inspector for north Surrey, said: "Between October and February we see a rise in these offences. Victims are normally elderly people from more trusting times, and the criminals are constantly finding new ways to get access into their houses and steal belongings and money.

"I would ask people to check identification, and if they are feeling unsure, to close the door."

Anyone with information should call DC Gamble in Staines CID on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/09/10452, or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111