DISTRACTION burglars targeted an elderly couple by masquerading as Thames Water staff.

Three men called at the home of the pensioners in Frog Lane, Milton-under-Wychwood, on Thursday, and told them there was a mains leak in the area.

The burglars were invited into the home of the 88-year-old man and his 89-year-old wife at about 1pm, after telling them that they needed to switch off their water supply.

Chris Kearney, a spokesman for Thames Valley Police, said the burglary was discovered later in the day, after a neighbour found the woman’s handbag nearby, with £45 missing.

One man was in his 60s, while the other two were aged 25 to 30. One of the younger men had a speech impediment.

Mr Kearney said: “The couple were not hurt, and at the moment, we are not connecting this burglary with any other incidents.

“Thames Water contacted us to alert us, and we are appealing for information.”

Joyce Mollart, who is in her 80s and lives in Frog Lane, said the burglars did not call at her home.

She added: “This is a sleepy lane, and nothing like this ever seems to happen — I hope this is a one-off.”

Thames Water has introduced a new dedicated bogus caller helpline, open 24-hours a day, that customers can call to check the identity of visiting representatives.

The helpline will direct the customer to a Thames Water call agent, who will deal personally with the case.

Mike Tempest, director of customer services, said: "As well as setting up a dedicated bogus caller helpline, Thames Water operates a doorstep password scheme, that all our customers can join.”

He said customers could call the helpline, on 0845 9200 800, to join the scheme.