RESIDENTS are being urged to beware of cold callers after a pensioner was the victim of a distraction burglary by a thief posing as a gas meter reader.

The man called at a 77-year-old woman's house in Kestrel Way, Clacton, on Thursday at 11am.

After claiming he was there to read the meter, the woman let him in and showed him to where it was kept.

But the man twice followed her into the kitchen and after he had gone it emerged £9 in cash had been taken from the worktop.

The gas supplier have confirmed the man is not one of their employees.

Det Sgt Jules Cole said: "The man involved was reported to be driving an older style white or light grey Ford Fiesta and I would like to hear from anyone else who thinks they might have been approached by him.

"We would advise everyone to always be sure the caller is who they say they are before letting them in.

"All genuine callers will have identification and won’t mind you asking to see it.

"Representatives from water, gas and electric companies are unlikely to call at your home without an appointment and police are likely to be present if there is a real emergency.

"If you don’t want callers in your home, tell them.

"If they fail to listen then call us.

"We would also ask people to keep an eye out for any of their neighbours who they think could be more vulnerable to these scams.”


Anyone with information should call Clacton CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.