Conman burgles elderly woman

A conman stole cash from an elderly woman after talking his way into her Tipton home by asking for a pen and paper, police said today.

Residents are now being urged to be vigilant against bogus callers after the distraction burglary in Swancroft Road.

West Midlands Police spokeswoman Deb Edmonds said: "The teenage male has knocked on the door of her flat asking for a pen and paper to leave a note for a friend at another flat.

"The occupant has led him inside and gone to search for a pen and paper and whilst there he has taken a small amount of cash. The woman saw him searching and shouted at him and he left."

The burglary took place at around 5pm on Friday and anyone who saw anything suspicious at the time is asked to call police in Sandwell.

The burglar is white and aged about 17 or 18.

Sgt Stephanie Court from the Princes End Neighbourhood Team in Tipton added: "I would urge residents that if they are not sure who is at the door to ring the local police station or family and friends."

Anyone with information should call 101.