Police warning after two people trick their way into elderly East Grinstead man's home

A spokesman for the police said a man and a woman persuaded the 73-year-old man to let them into his home in Dorset Avenue between 1pm and 3pm on Friday (April 17), but nothing was taken and he was unhurt.

Detective Constable Mark Buckley said: “Two people persuaded a vulnerable man to let them into his house where they spent several minutes. This happened in broad daylight and is a common method by which criminals gain access to people’s homes, especially those that live on their own and are vulnerable.

“If you were in the area at the time and witnessed some of these events, or have any dash cam or CCTV covering these times in and around Dorset Avenue, then I want to hear from you.

“I would ask you all to be vigilant. Look out for your neighbours and relatives, and do not let anyone you do not know into your house.”

The two suspects are described by police as a white man in his mid to late 30s, about 5ft 8ins tall, with brown hair, carrying a brown coloured shopping bag; and a white woman in her 30s, about 5ft 8ins, with long wavy brown hair, carrying a long-handled shopping bag.

Anyone with any information about the incident is urged to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 1424 of 17/04.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.