The 'sickening' burglary of an 85-year-old woman by two children in Harold Hill has prompted a police warning for pensioners to be on the lookout in the run-up to the school Easter holidays.
The 12-year-old and 16-year-old boys conned their way into the frail pensioner's home by pretending to be gardeners sent by Havering Council.
The elderly woman let them in and while one boy distracted her the other rifled through her handbag and snatched £350 cash.
The heartless pair had previously attempted a similar con on a 69-year-old neighbour.He saw through the trick and refused to let them in.
The 12-year-old boy is described as white, with short dark brown curly hair and is 4ft 10in. He was wearing a multi coloured checked jumper and blue jeans.
The other boy is described as white, 5ft 8in with short light brown hair. He was wearing a brown leather jacket, white t-shirt and blue jeans.
Sgt Mick Adamson from Harold police is warning other pensioners to be on the lookout this Easter holiday.
He warned elderly and vulnerable people to be particularly vigilant and careful, double-checking the identity of callers.
He said: "This particular incident is sickening because we have a situation where children are robbing frail old people.
"We would like to hear from anyone in Kettering Road or the surrounding area who may have been approached by these youngsters."
Call 01708 779625 with information, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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