AN ELDERLY woman was tricked into allowing burglars into her home after they pretended to be from the water board.

The victim had a knock at her door in Headington on Friday, from a man claiming he needed access to the proprty 'due to a leak'.

He entered the home in Mattock Close between 2pm and 2.15pm, and insisted she stay and watch him carry out the 'repair work' in the kitchen.

When she reopened the kitchen door she saw two other men in her living room who were 'touching the ceiling', police said.

The woman challenged the trio asking who they were and what they were doing, and all three men then fled.

Thames Valley Police appealed for witnesses today, but did not state if anything was stolen during the distraction burglary.

The first man is described as slim, white, about 40 years old and 5ft 8ins tall. with short brown hair.

He was wearing a white short sleeved shirt and grey trousers.

The second is described as a white man of stocky build, in his early 20s, about 5ft 10ins tall with dark hair.

He was wearing black trousers and a black sweatshirt.

The third man is also described as white and in his early 20s, about 5ft 10ins tall with medium brown hair. 

Anyone who noticed the men in the area or knows their identity can report details online quoting reference number 43180304488.

Alternatively witnesses can call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.