A DISTRACTION burglar struck twice in half an hour in Oxford.

Police believe both burglaries, which took place on Monday, are linked.

The burglar knocked on a door in William Kimber Crescent, Headington, between 11am and 11.30am telling the 72-year-old woman inside he needed to check the water. Once inside he stole £110.

At 11.45am the same man called at the home of a 57-year-old woman in Mortimer Drive, Marston, claiming to be from a water company.

He got inside but the woman grew suspicious and asked for identification.

The burglar said he would get his ID from his van, but never returned and nothing was stolen.

He is described as white, middle aged, about 5ft 4in tall, tubby and with a round face, dark receding hair, possibly brushed back, and was wearing a dark top, jeans, a maroon T-shirt and white trainers.

PC Matt Welsh said: "We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the areas of Mortimer Drive and William Kimber Crescent on Monday morning and may have seen something suspicious. Did this man call at your home?"

Police are warning elderly homeowners to chain their doors and never let anyone into their home unless they are known, always check identification and even dial 999 in an emergency.

Anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.