POLICE are appealing for information after a bogus caller stole money from the home of a 79-year-old woman.

The incident happened when the owner of a house in Amsbury Road, Coxheath, near Maidstone, opened the door to a man who said he needed to come in and check her water, as he was dealing with a leak down the road.

She let him in and he looked under the kitchen sink. He then left, saying he would call back later.

After he had left, the victim discovered cash missing from her home. It is believed a second offender entered the house and took the money while the she was distracted.

The offender who spoke to the victim is described as a white man, aged between 25 to 30, 5ft 10ins tall, with short dark brown hair.

He was wearing blue jeans with faded patches around the knees. It is believed the second offender was also white, and smartly dressed.

Anyone with information about this incident whixch occurred at about 1.30pm on Friday, April 8, is asked to contact PC Alan Beesley on 01622 608182, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 – this call is free and confidential.

Police advise that if you think you have a bogus caller at your door:

* Use a door chain when opening the door.

* Insist on seeing and properly inspecting identification.

* Don’t be afraid to tell the person: “No, you can’t come in.”

* Tell the caller to phone back to make an appointment.

* Call the agency/organisation the person is claiming to be from - to double-check their identity. A genuine caller will not mind waiting.

* Call a friend or trusted neighbour if you are nervous.