A THIEF conned his way into a 76-year-old man's home by telling him he had won a competition.

The man told the householder that he had won a doormat and a pair of slippers in a charity competition and that he needed a pen to write down the details.

The householder went into his house in Windrush Close, Kings End, Bicester, to fetch a pen and returned to the front door.

The suspect then said that he had to go and fetch something, so the victim returned inside, leaving the door open. He then heard a noise upstairs, so he went and locked the front door and went to investigate.

He found that the suspect was in one of the bedrooms. The victim asked what he was doing and he said that he was looking for paper. The victim said he had some, so they went downstairs.

The suspect then said he was thirsty, so the victim got him a glass of water. The suspect then left.

The victim later found out that £60 had been stolen from his coat pocket. The theft happened at about 7pm on Monday, but details were only released today.

PC Sally Moore, based at Kidlington police station, said: "The victim has been left very shaken by this incident. I would encourage anyone who may have witnessed this incident, or saw anything suspicious in the area to please get in touch.

"I would warn people, especially the elderly, to be aware of bogus callers. Always check for ID and if there is any doubt, do not let them into your house."

PC Moore can be contacted via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

If you don't want to talk to police and don't want to leave your name, call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.