CUNNING distraction burglars are targeting Wyre Forest pensioners- and the problem could be bigger than anyone realises.

People with vulnerable elderly neighbours have been urged to be alert following a spate of thefts by bogus officials conning their way in to homes.

Kidderminster Police have issued the plea after bogus officials struck at three homes in Stourport and Bewdley in the space of a few hours.

But officers fear they are not getting the full picture because victims are afraid to report the crimes.

They believe three incidents on Thursday, September 12, are linked - and although an incident in which a phoney electricity worker who stole jewellery from a woman in her 80s in Hagley is not thought to be connected, it has pressed the message home.

PC Andy Hill, of the crime and disorder reduction team, said: "In view of the fact that thieves are active in the area we are asking people to be particularly vigilant.

"Our advice is never to let a stranger into your home until you are sure of who they are.

"A genuine official will not mind if you close the door while you contact their company to make sure they are who they say they are."

A man entered the kitchen of a home in Brindley Street, Stourport, at 11am last Thursday, through a communal alleyway. He ransacked cupboards after telling the resident, in her 80s, he was from the water board.

Shortly afterwards a white man, 5ft 2ins and wearing a rust coloured pullover, came to a back door in Areley Common saying he needed to look at some trees before pushing his way into the back garden before leaving.

Nothing is thought to have been stolen in either incident.

However, two men claiming to be council workers repairing water pipes stole £140 from the handbag of a woman in her 80s at Springhill Rise in Bewdley at about 12.50pm the same day.

Both were white; one was about 5ft 4ins, of large build and in his late 20s while the other wore a grey suit.

PC Hill appealed to residents: "If you see anyone who you think maybe suspicious, contact the police and if possible make a note of the registration number of any vehicle they may be using."

A police spokeswoman outlined fears these reports could be "the tip of the iceberg".