Two bogus callers posing as council workmen made off with £70 from the home of an 88-year-old brother and sister.

The pair - who live in Madeira Road, Holland-on-Sea - were left shocked and distressed by the incident but were unhurt.

Det Sgt Martin Brough, of Clacton police, said officers are keen to trace witnesses and are warning other residents in the area to be on their guard.

The two men turned up at the house and one of them said they were from Colchester Borough Council.

He said they were there to carry out work to fencing and took the elderly woman to the bottom of the garden.

While he did that the other man went into the house and stole the cash from a bedroom.

The incident took place around 10am on Friday.

The first man, who went into the garden with the woman was white, about 40 years old and of medium build. He was around 5ft 6ins, clean shaven with dark or black hair. He wore plain grey peaked cap, a plain navy anorak, blue jeans, black shoes and spoke with a local accent. His accomplice was also white, of proportionate build, 35-40 years old and about 5ft 10ins tall. He was clean shaven and wore dark clothing.

Anyone with information which could help police investigating the incident should call detectives on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111

By Nigel Brown

Reporter's e-mail: nigel_brown@thisisessex.co.uk

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