'Gardener' steals from man in his 80s (From Brentwood Weekly News)

'Gardener' steals from man in his 80s

5:25pm Wednesday 4th July 2012 in News By Ryan McCarthy

A THIEF posed as a gardener to steal cash from the home of a man in his 80s.

The distraction burglary happened at a house in Brookfield Close, Hutton, when a man in his late 30s or early 40s knocked at the door and said he was from a gardening club.

The thief said he was at the home to paint a garden fence.

The pensioner let the man into his home but instead of going to the garden he walked into the property’s bedroom and opened cupboards before taking almost £300.

He was eventually challenged by the homeowner and forced to leave.

Det Con Jo Phillips said: "We would urge and remind all homeowners to refuse entry to any stranger turning up on their doorstep without appointment and to obtain valid identification from those who do so.

"If these people are who they say they are, then they will only be too happy and patient while you verify the details with their manager.

"We really want to catch this man so are urging anyone who saw him, helped with the description provided, in Hutton on Tuesday to contact us.”

The burglar is described as white, of slim build, about 5ft tall and with short, brown hair which is curly on top.

Anyone with information can call detectives at Basildon police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.