Police are investigating a distraction theft in which an elderly woman from Ramsgate had cash stolen from her bedroom.

Before Christmas two men carried out some work on a woman’s guttering in Bloomsbury Road.

They are alleged to have returned at noon on January 25 to demand more money.

While at the property one of the men asked to use the woman’s toilet.

The other man is then said to have distracted the woman by talking to her while his accomplice went into her bedroom and removed cash from her purse.

The first of these two men is white, in his 20s and about 5ft 6ins tall. He was clean shaven with short hair, a slim build and spoke with a southern accent.

The second man is believed to be a similar age, or possibly slightly older. He is 5ft 8ins and stocky with short hair and a clean shaven face.

They arrived at the address in a red van with no markings on it.

Investigating officer DC Lucy Fisk said: "Distraction thieves like this prey on a person’s good nature and this can have a profound impact on the victim.

"They often target people who they know to be elderly and this makes the offence all the more callous.

"I would also urge people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours or relatives.

"I would also urge people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours or relatives..." DC Lucy Fisk

"Further to this, I would like to remind people that there are measures you can take which could help you avoid falling victim to these people.

"This includes; ensuring rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering your front door.

"Fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms.

"Always checking the ID of cold callers - a door chain or spy hole will help you do this without letting anyone into your home. Don’t be afraid to turn people away."

Anyone with information linked to this report, or details relating to similar incidents is urged to contact Kent Police on 101 quoting reference ZY/2651/16.

You can also call Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.