DISTRACTION burglars struck at the home of an elderly woman in Chippenham yesterday - the same day a new leaflet was produced to crack down on that type of offence.

Three men called at the home in Canterbury Street at about 7pm last night claiming to be from the water board.

They asked the elderly occupant to turn off the water supply and stole cash from the house before fleeing.

One of the gang was described as white, in his early 30s, about 5ft 6in tall, clean shaven with short dark hair. The second was about 5ft 9in tall, had a moustache and sideburns and was wearing a blue jumper. The third offender was aged late 20s/early 30s with short mousey hair, clean shaven and wearing a dark jacket.

Any witnesses to the incident should call 0845 4087000.

Police announced earlier that they had joined forces with Age Concern Wiltshire to produce an information leaflet to try to cut down on distraction burglars.