A conman tricked his way into a pensioner’s home after pretending to be a policeman.

Officers are hunting for the man, aged between 20 and 30, following the incident in the Strode Park Road area of Herne.

A red leather purse with a small amount of cash inside was swiped after the man claimed to be an officer offering security advice.

Detective sergeant Richard Allen said: “He showed her some paperwork on his clipboard, which included his photo, and a pair of handcuffs on his belt, and was quite insistent she let him in.

“Once in the house he asked for a glass of water and when she had given him the drink he made his excuses and left.

“It was only after he had gone that she realised her purse was missing.”

"Don’t be afraid to turn people away..." - Detective sergeant Richard Allen

The offender called on the elderly woman between 4pm and 4.10pm yesterday (Sunday).

He is described as white, 5ft 7in tall and of a slim build.

He had short, straight, black hair and a moustache and was wearing glasses.

The man had an English accent and was wearing a grey t-shirt and black trousers.

Det sgt Allen, who is appealing for witnesses, urged people to be vigilant and to look out for elderly.

“Distraction thieves often prey on a person’s good nature,” he added.

“It was particularly cynical of this offender to talk his way into the house while purporting to be offering advice on home security.

“Don’t be afraid to turn people away. If the person purports to be a police officer and there is any doubt, always contact police to confirm their identity.”

Phone police on 01843 222289 quoting reference number 02-1034.