POLICE are warning elderly residents in the town to be on their guard after a series of robberies by a con woman.

Once in the homes, the woman has been known to have taken pension money, savings and small valuables. The woman has struck at homes throughout Middlesbrough.

The woman, who has a local accent, is believed to be between 19 and 25, of average height, medium build, with dark shoulder-length hair which is sometimes tied up in a ponytail.

A police spokesman said although no one had been hurt the elderly victims have been left "shaken and upset".

PC Dave Taylor, of the community policing team in North Ormesby, said: "This is a callous crime targeting the elderly and depriving them of their pensions and savings.

"We want the elderly to be on their guard from callers, especially those fitting the caller's description."

Anyone with information should call PC Taylor on (01642) 303219.