PADDOCK Wood residents have been warned not to let unexpected callers into their homes after an elderly woman became the victim of a distraction burglary this week.

Between 2.45 and 3.15pm on Saturday, the Kent Close resident opened her door to a young man who claimed to be from the water board.

The man talked the woman into letting him into her flat and he then kept her occupied in the kitchen for a short time, running taps.

After the man left, the woman discovered money was missing from her handbag which was kept in another room.

The man who called was described as being white with dark brown hair and aged between 18 and 25.

He was wearing a dark long-sleeved top and dark trousers.

Det Sgt Ben Turner appealed for anyone who may have seen someone matching the description in Kent Close at the time to contact police.

He added: "Please remind any older or vulnerable family members and neighbours they should never let unexpected callers in.

"Good advice to follow is 'Stop, Chain, Check'. Stop, put on the door bar or chain before you open the door, then check by asking to see identification. "

Anyone with information should call 01732 379217 (quoting ref 10252) or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.