Bogus officials steal from home

The incident happened in Clipston, on Wednesday, March 9, at 9pm.

The occupant, a retired woman, opened the door to a man who said he needed to check the water, due to the recent floods.

The man’s story was more believable because it was the day of very heavy rain in the Harborough area.

The man came into the house and asked the lady to sit and wait, at which point she realised there were other men upstairs.

All of them left the house after a short while.

The lady found that jewellery and her handbag were missing.

The lady’s family have sent the Mail this picture showing some of the jewellery, which had great sentimental value, having been in their family for generations.

The offenders are described as white, one about 30, 5ft 10in with a medium build, clean shaven with rosy cheeks and short-dark hair.

He wore dark trousers, gloves and a hat.

Another was in his forties with a moustache and wore a hat, a checked top, dark trousers and gloves.

Anyone with information about the jewellery or who saw anything should ring Northamptonshire police on 101.

Alternatively, they can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who has suspicions or concerns that distraction burglars or rogue doorstep traders are operating in their neighbourhood or targeting someone they know, can call 101 or the dedicated doorstep crime number on 0345 23 07 702.

Police are urging local people to be vigilant and advise them never to open the door to anyone they are not expecting.