Distraction burglars targeting elderly women struck four times in one afternoon in Slough and South Bucks.

They struck on Thursday, July 27 between 2pm and 4pm in Northborough Road, Slough, Goose Green, Farnham Royal, Wycombe End, Beaconsfield and in Denham Garden Village.

In two of the incidents the victims answered the door to a woman asking for a pen and paper to leave a note for a neighbour. On both occasions the woman then entered the victims’ home and distracted them while an accomplice stole property.

In the other two incidents, a woman came to the door of the homeowners and suggested she knew the victims and entered their homes uninvited. Again the offender left after a few moments and it is believed an accomplice stole property.

Handbags, cash and bank cards and jewellery were taken by the offenders.

The offender is a white woman, with short brown hair, 5ft 4ins, medium build, wearing glasses. She was wearing a light-coloured jacket and trousers.

None of the victims was injured.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Stuart Cook of the Investigation Hub based at Amersham police station, said: “We would advise that people remain vigilant and keep an eye on their elderly neighbours and relatives to make sure they are not being targeted by distraction burglars and report anything suspicious.

“We would also advise people not to let anyone into their home unless they are sure they are who they say they are.”

Police are appealing for anyone with information about these distraction burglaries to contact them on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.