POLICE in the Sedgefield area are appealing for information about a spate of attempted distraction burglaries.

Two men targeted an elderly woman's home in Ferryhill, at 11.30am on Tuesday

They said they were from a water company and attempted to gain entry, but the pensioner asked them to leave.

One man was described as 5ft 6in, of thin build, with dark hair. He wore a blue top and spoke with a local accent. The other was about the same height and of stocky build.

In Newton Aycliffe, an elderly man was distracted by someone at his fence, while a second man entered the house. Both men left when the owner realised what was happening.

The man at the fence is described as white, in his early 20s, 5ft 10in, of slim build, with gaunt features. He had dark eyes, a ridged nose and stubble around his face, and a scruffy appearance.

He was wearing a dark, canvas baseball cap with a peak, a dark top and dirty jeans. He spoke with an Irish accent. Police have released an e-fit picture of the suspect.

The second man was about the same age and of heavy build. He wore a grey top.

Another incident took place at about 9.40am at the home of an elderly woman in Newton Aycliffe.

The woman's 14-year-old grandson answered the door to a man who claimed he was from the council. Two other men climbed over a rear fence and were about to enter the premises when they were confronted by the woman and left.

The man at the door wore an Adidas tracksuit. Another was unshaven, had fair hair, and wore a striped jumper. A third wore a baseball cap.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Gordon Scott on (01325) 314401.