TWO burglars dressed as police officers crept into the home of an 81-year-old woman and stole money and jewellery.

Police are urging the public to be on their guard against cold callers, after the distraction burglarly at the home of an elderly resident in the Sowerby area of Thirsk .

A man called at the home of the elderly resident and claimed to be carrying out some work on the property at Croft Head.

He tricked her into going into her backgarden while his accomplices, dressed in dark blue or black clothing and wearing baseball caps with the word “police” on, crept into her home.

As she passed her door, the woman locked it and unbeknown to her, locked the two men inside.

After the first man left, she discovered them in her home. She told them to leave and called the police.

The burglars got away with cash and a gold signet ring with the letter ‘R’ on it.

Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Karl Middlemiss, said: “Distraction burglaries are some of the most cowardly and despicable crimes we come across. The offenders target the elderly and vulnerable in our communities, often leaving them devastated and feeling insecure in their own homes.

“If you have any doubts about someone claiming to be a police officer, make them wait outside and call us on 101, a genuine police officer will not be offended and will be happy to wait outside.

If they refuse to leave or if you feel threatened, call 999 immediately.”

DC Middlemiss said relatives and neighbours of elderly residents should make sure they have adequate security and reassure them that keeping someone waiting at the door, or refusing to answer, it is not impolite.

Police want to speak to anyone who saw the men in the Thirsk area dressed in dark clothing, with or without their baseball caps.

It is believed the first man, in the zip-up top, called at other houses in the street.

Anyone with any information should ring North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for Northallerton CID or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.