Bogus callers stole £700 from a woman in her 80s after conning their way into her home.
One man knocked on the victim's door in Sunnyside Road, Fordham, saying he was working across the road and needed to turn her water off.
He was allowed in, went to her kitchen and pretended to adjust her taps, leaving the front door open so an accomplice could sneak in and steal cash.
The victim told police the caller was white, about 25, slim, and was wearing a navy blue anorak.
A neighbour told police she saw three men in their 20s in the area. Two were quite short and a third was described as large.
The theft is being linked to a second call in which three men called at a home in Holman Crescent, Prettygate, Colchester.
They said they were from the water authority but the resident was suspicious and turned them away then called police.
The men were last seen walking towards Plume Avenue.
Information to police on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111
Published Wednesday January 14, 2004
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