A woman from Cliftonville has reportedly been burgled by two men posing as undercover police officers.

The victim, a woman in her 80s, was visited by the pair between 11am and 2pm on January 15.

She has told how she opened the door of her Northumberland Avenue home and invited the two men in after they claimed her cash was likely to be counterfeit and they were investigating a linked incident as undercover officers.

The pair then took cash from her and told her they would get it changed.

They did not return.

And after the pair left the woman realised her purse containing keys and change was missing.

Police are investigating the alleged burglary and are urging people to be cautious about allowing cold callers into their homes.

Investigating officer detective constable Adam Hinton said: "We would like to remind people about the risks of welcoming strangers into your home.

"Most people who call at your house will be genuine but remember that representatives of the emergency services or utility companies rarely visit without appointments, and even if they have they will be more than happy to show you their identification or for you to call their employers to double-check they are who they say they are.

"Bogus callers are also known to work in pairs, with one distracting the victim while the other steals their belongings. Remember to ensure your back windows and doors are locked before answering at the front."

Anyone with information about the two men are asked to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference ZY/1620/16.

Alternatively call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.