Police are warning people to be on their guard after a distraction burglary which left a Dover pensioner without her purse.

The incident reportedly took place at an address in the Durham Hill area of the town just before 2pm yesterday.

Detective Inspector Ben Loose said: “A man selling dusters knocked on the door of a lady in her 80s.

“She made him a drink and he asked if he had left his pass in her home. She went to look for it and when she returned he had gone – and so had her purse.”

Police received a second report of a man selling dusters in the Folkestone Road area the same afternoon by a concerned member of the public.

The man is described as white, about 6ft tall and with short, dark hair.

He was wearing a cap and dark jeans and was carrying a blue holdall over his shoulder.

Detective Inspector Loose said: “Distraction thieves prey on a person’s good nature and often ask the occupant for a glass of water or to use the phone as a distraction technique.

“We are urging people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours and relatives.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who recognises this man’s description or who has information about the incident.”

Police are advising people to make sure their rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering their front door.

People also might like to consider fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms to protect themselves.

Another tip is to always check the ID of cold callers and don’t be afraid to turn people away.

If you have any information about this incident, call on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number 08-0606.