A con man posing as a builder tricked his way into two elderly people’s homes in Mitcham on Wednesday.

The burglaries happened in Love Lane and Weston Road between noon and 2pm, police said.

The man conned one of the victims out of money.

He is described as white, clean shaven, short, stocky build with fair hair.

He was wearing dark blue jeans, a dark blue T-Shirt and baseball cap, with a grey duster over his shoulder.

Anyone with information should call Merton police on 0208 649 3159 or 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

  • Police have issued advice against bogus callers pretending to be an official from a company or a worker carrying out urgent repairs.
  • Use a chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognise them before answering the door.
  • Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry a photographic identification card. If unsure of its validity, telephone the company the caller claims to represent.
  • Utility companies offer a password identification system. Callers should give a pre-arranged password as additional proof of identity.
  • Callers may attempt to distract you by claiming they have seen something untoward on your premises which may encourage you to leave your house - they may have an accomplice awaiting this distraction.
  • If you are not convinced of the identity of the caller, don't let them in. Ask the caller to return later and arrange for someone to be with you on their return.