CROOKS posing as cops duped an elderly man out of hundreds of pounds.

Two men told the man in his 80s they were detectives when he found them in his home in Keeble Way, Braintree.

While he was distracted they stole the cash. The incident happened at around 3pm yesterday (Sunday January 20).

One of the men is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build, with a shaven head and between 45 to 55 years of age. He was wearing a black fleece, black trousers and boots.

The public are reminded police officers always carry a warrant card with their name and photo and you can check by phoning Essex Police on 101.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Liz Young at Braintree CID on 101.