Distraction thieves rob woman, 77

Two men who carried out a distraction burglary in Northumberland are being sought by police.

The pair, claiming to be from a tree-cutting company, called at the home of a 77-year-old woman in the Hollywell area of Blyth on Monday.

Once inside, one kept the householder occupied while the other stole cash.

The first man is described as about 5ft 8in tall and with curly black hair. The second had light hair and a thin face and was wearing a yellow jacket.

A police spokeswoman said that people should be vigilant when answering the door, and anyone calling from an official organisation should be happy to wait while the homeowner makes identity checks.