POLICE are warning the most vulnerable and elderly in the town to be on alert after a distraction burglary.

The incident happened between 10am and 10.30am on Wednesday, when a man called a home in South Marston claiming he had been working at a nearby property.

He asked the elderly homeowner if they had change of a £20 note and, while their back was turned, he stole a purse which contained £115 in cash.

The man is described as white, of stocky build, aged between 40 and 50, wearing black trousers, a black T-shirt and a black baseball cap. It is thought he also had grey hair.

Detective Constable Anthony King, of the Police Distraction Burglary unit at Wiltshire Police said: “Bogus callers often target elderly and the most vulnerable members of our society.

“I would urge residents not to open their doors unless they are expecting a visitor and to check their identity before letting them in.

“Genuine employees will be more than happy to show some form of ID and to call their employee to make sure they are legitimate.

“By adhering to the following advice you will reduce your chance of becoming a victim to of a distraction burglary – always keep your door shut and locked, if someone comes to your door and you are not expecting anyone it is important for you to check who it is by checking through a spyhole or looking through a window.

“Do not open a door to anyone you do not know or are not expecting.

“Official visitors will always arrange a visit with you beforehand – if no appointment has been made do not open the door.

“Do not keep large amounts of cash at home – it is much safer in a bank or building society.

“Always keep purses and wallets hidden away out of sight and do not keep PIN numbers with credit or debit cards.

“Never agree to have work carried out by someone who is just passing or believe such people when they claim that repairs need to be carried out.

“If you see anyone suspicious or think a bogus caller may have called at your home, report it immediately by calling police on 999.”