POLICE are urging pensioners to be vigilant after a woman claiming to be a neighbour's niece stole money and jewellery from a couple.

The woman called at the home in Heath Road, Beaconsfield, between 5.45 and 5.55pm last Tuesday saying she needed a pen and paper to write a note for her relations.

As she kept the elderly lady distracted, an accomplice came in and stole money and jewellery.

The woman is described as white, 18 to 20 years old and 5ft 3ins tall and of slim build. She had shoulder length blonde hair in a ponytail and was wearing a pale blue or grey top and dark jeans.

Four men were seen in the couple's garden, hanging around near a gate. They are described as white, in their teens and 5ft 7ins to 5ft 8ins tall. They were of slim build and were wearing dark coloured bomber jackets and dark coloured tops.

Another man was described as white, 20 years old and 5ft 3ins tall, of medium build with short dark hair and stubble.

Police spokeswoman Kate Spark said: "Never let an unexpected caller into your home unless you are absolutely certain of their intentions.

"If you are at all suspicious of an unexpected caller do not let them in. Close the door and call the police immediately."

She urged people not to keep large amounts of cash in their homes and stressed the benefits of a door chain.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact PC Lisa Everard at Amersham Police on (01494) 465888