MEN posing as security consultants tricked their way into the homes of elderly people in Oxford.

The first happened in Barton Road, Headington, Oxford, at about 5.20pm on Thursday, when two men told the house's elderly resident that they were from the council. One man distracted the woman, saying he was measuring for burglar alarms, whilst the other stole her purse.

One man was large, wearing a black leather coat and dark trousers. The second was taller with curly hair, also wearing dark trousers.

The second burglary was in Kendall Crescent, Cutteslowe, at about 6pm when a man arrived at the elderly victim's house claiming he was there to change the locks. He asked her for a deposit, which she refused and asked him to come back with proof of ID. Later the woman found her purse, containing money and pension cards were missing.

This man was tall, tidy-looking, in his early thirties and was wearing a black leather jacket.

PC Alex Gill, of Oxford Burglary Team, said; "These criminals are the lowest of the low, deliberately targeting the elderly and the vulnerable.

"I am keen to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area or who recognises the description of the offenders."

Anyone with information should contact PC Gill via 0845 8 505 505. If you do not which to speak to police or give your name call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.