TWO men conned a 91-year-old man out of money after convincing him that he needed guttering work done to his house.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the distraction burglary in Lowther Road in Emmbrook, Wokingham, between Monday, January 27, and Thursday, January 30.

The elderly man answered the front door to two men who said he needed guttering work done as the gutters were overflowing.

They asked for an advance payment and while inside the house they removed three cheques from the man's chequebook.

The offence was reported to police last Thursday when the victim received his bank statement showing money had been taken from his account.

The first man is described as being white, aged between 50-60 years old, around 5ft 6ins, of slight to medium build with short hair. He was wearing a jacket and stained trousers and had a London accent.

The second man is white, aged about 30, around 6ft, slim and with short hair.

Investigating officer, PC Tin Wong from Wokingham police station, said: “This was a cowardly crime, in which an elderly person was deliberately targeted. I am keen to speak to anyone who saw these men in the area or has any information which may help with our investigation.

“I urge people to verify the identity of strangers who call at their homes, either by asking to see their identity card or by calling the company or organisation they claim to be from and checking with them.

“A legitimate caller will never mind and will be happy to wait while you do this. If someone claims to be from the police, this can be verified by asking for their shoulder number and calling the 101 enquiry line to verify this.

“Never let someone into your home without doing this.” Anyone with information should contact PC Wong at Wokingham police station via on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.