POLICE are making a desperate plea to elderly householders to be extra vigilant after a series of burglaries by bogus utility officials.

Detectives are investigating a spate of distraction thefts across the area but have said that they need the public's help to fight these crimes.

In the last week eight thefts have been reported to the police but they believe that is just the tip of the iceberg. The incidents have all involved a man claiming to be from the water board.

After tricking his way into the house another man is believed to have searched the house and stole cash and jewellery.

Crime prevention officer PC Don Luke said: "There are a lot of reasons people don't report this sort of incident so we believe there have been more victims. We are doing all we can to stop the culprits but need vulnerable householders and their families to reduce the risk of them being the next one.

"The victims are usually targeted because they are vulnerable, elderly and live alone. The youngest victim reported to us was 76 years-old."

In each case the caller said he was working on the local water supply and when invited into the house distracted the owner by running the taps. While he talked to them a second man searched the house.

PC Luke said: "There are some basic steps to take protect yourself against bogus callers and relatives should talk about them with older people in the family so they follow them. Always check a caller's identification, if unsure call the company they claim to represent or ask them to make an appointment for a time you can have someone with you.

"Use door chains and lock the back door when answering the front."

The men involved are all said to be around 20 years-old, between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10in tall, with dark hair and all wore dark clothes.

On several occasions they spoke with an Irish accent.

Anyone with information, or anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of such crime, is asked to call Bishop Auckland police on (01388) 603566 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.