POLICE have released an Efit image of a man who posed as a water board official to steal from two elderly people in Shenfield.

The man and an accomplice struck twice at Hutton Road on October 2 and took cash and jewellery of great sentimental value from the victims, a man and woman both aged in their 70s.

The first incident happened at about 1 30pm when the suspect called at the man’s home in a block of flats.

The trickster claimed that there had been an explosion in the water mains and that he was checking all homes in the area to ensure the supply was working.

He took the victim into the kitchen to check the taps and chatted with him while the accomplice sneaked into the flat and took £80.

The theft was discovered when the two men left.

A few minutes later the two men struck again, at a woman’s flat nearby and again claimed he was from the water board and was checking supplies in the area.

While the woman was taken into the kitchen and bathroom to check the taps the accomplice sneaked in and took jewellery from her bedroom and also cash from her purse.

Investigating officer, Dc Paul Burnett, said: "These were appalling crimes and both victims have been badly shaken by what happened.

“The jewellery taken from the woman’s home was of great sentimental value and included her engagement and eternity ring from her late husband.

“One of her husband's rings belonged to his father and was more than 100 years old.

"We urge people to be on their guard against these criminals. Please look closely at the Efit and if you do see this man in the area call 999 immediately.”

The suspect is aged about 35, about 5ft 11in tall, of chubby build and with short dark hair.

He was also thought to have crooked teeth. He was wearing a grey suit and had a red lanyard around his neck which said NHS.

Anyone with information should contact DC Burnett at Brentwood CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.