Police are warning householders to be on the alert for distraction burglars tricking their way into homes after a burglary in Chilham in which an elderly woman had cash stolen.

The burglary happened in Felborough Close during the afternoon on Tuesday 3 January when a man rang the 80-year-old woman’s doorbell and discussed local crime and CCTV with her.

He then asked to use the toilet and it is believed that whilst he was in the house he took a purse from the woman’s bedroom.

The cash was not discovered missing until the next day.

The man is described as aged in his 30s, quite stocky, clean shaven, with dark hair.

Anyone with information or who saw the man in the village is urged to contact Detective Constable Nathan Scamp at Kent Police on 101, giving reference ZY/394.

©Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012