POLICE are warning the elderly to be extra vigilant after a series of distraction burglaries.

On Wednesday, a 92-year-old woman almost had her possessions stolen after two men entered her house in Chalfont St Peter, at 2.50pm.

One of the men distracted her by engaging her in conversation while the other searched the house, before they left empty-handed.

The men are described as white, in their early 20s and one had a local accent and wore a dark top.

Kate Spark, police spokesman said: "While the incidents are continuing we are appealing to vulnerable people to be extremely cautious.

"These people will try anything."

She said that it was important for pensioners to never let anyone in unless they are certain of their intentions.

Old people should ask for identification and should check it with the relevant services, utilities or police, she added.

She said a chain should be added to the door as well as a spy hole.

Witnesses are being urged to contact PC Paul Curran on (01494) 465888 or contact crimestoppers on 0800 555 111