POLICE today appealed for witnesses after two youths tricked their way into the home of an 88-year-old man and stole cash.

They called at the house in Harcourt Green, Wantage, on Monday afternoon claiming to be from the water board.

They said that there was a leak behind the garage and they needed to check the water system. He took one of youths into the kitchen and then into the rear garden, where he fiddled with the taps. They then went upstairs to the bathroom.

When they came back down, the man noticed the other youth at the rear of the property. After they had gone he checked his possessions and found that some money had been stolen.

Det Con Will Downey, from Abingdon CID, said: "People should be aware that the water board no longer exists and should treat anyone that says they are with suspicion. Water companies will usually ring in advance if they need to do any work, but if you do receive a cold caller, ask for identification or failing that, phone the company to check.

"I would ask anybody that may have witnessed this incident, or seen two youths in the area acting suspiciously, to please get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Con Downey via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505, or if you do not want to talk to police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

  • Two 16-year-old youths have been arrested and released on bail till Monday, April 30.