A PENSIONER who refused to let potential distraction burglars into her home has warned others to be on their guard when answering their doors to strangers. The 70-year-old woman from Hitchin refused to let two men into her flat when they asked to go in t

A PENSIONER who refused to let potential distraction burglars into her home has warned others to be on their guard when answering their doors to strangers.

The 70-year-old woman from Hitchin refused to let two men into her flat when they asked to go in to turn the water supply off.

She said: "They said they were working in a nearby flat and just needed to come in for a few minutes but when they said they had left their identification cards in their car alarm bells starting ringing and I shut the door immediately.

"I have had advice from police in the past about security and what to do if something like this happens. I hope that everyone will realise that this sort of thing happens and that they should remember to ask for identification and not let strangers into their homes."

The incident happened at around 3.20pm on Wednesday last week and the offenders were both white. The first was in his early 40s, around 5ft 2ins tall and of slim build. He had dark hair and was unshaven.

The second was in his early 20s, also of slim build and had short fair hair.

Police investigator Bill Hughes from the local burglary and robbery unit said: "The victim did exactly the right thing in asking for ID and refusing to let the offenders into her home.

"These criminals are very persuasive and plausible and we are calling upon residents, their families and carers to be aware of these callers and to take precautions against them.

"Our advice is never to let anyone into your home or give them any information about yourself without making sure they are who they claim to be. Always ask unknown callers for proof of their identity and check it carefully. If you are still uncertain don't let them in.