POLICE are warning residents in Sheen, Mortlake and Barnes about a spate of deception burglaries plaguing the area over the last six weeks.

Men - who target elderly residents living alone - knock on a victim's door stating that work was carried out on their within the last few years and is still under warrantee. After inspecting the roof the suspect says two tiles need replacing at a cost of £400 - £500, or alternatively that extensive refurbishment is required at a sizeable cost.

Money is then asked up front, but little or no work is actually carried out. The victims are befriended and unaware that they have been duped; sometimes the culprit will wait a period of time before revisiting to try the scam again. By the time police are informed by concerned relatives, the damage is usually already done.

Police are appealing to neighbours of elderly residents to be on the look out, especially regarding transit vans with roof racks and ladders, or a workman accompanied by a young boy.

If you are in any doubt, please do not hesitate contact the police. Anyone with information on these crimes please contact DC Malcolm Nicholls at Twickenham CID on 0208 247 7033.