A conman claiming to be from the now defunct water board stole £500 from a pensioner.

The man called at the OAP's home in Blenheim Drive, Bicester, at noon on Friday.

The victim, a man in his 70s, answered the door and was asked to run the taps to see if they were working properly. The caller said his ID was in the car. While the pensioner was upstairs, the caller slipped into the house and stole the money, in £10 and £20.

Pc Bob Farmer, of Bicester police, said: "It is very disappointing that these thieves are back in town and I must warn people not to have any dealings with doorstep callers who do not immediately show positive identification. If there are any doubts then shut the door and ring the police. If anyone else in the Highfield area of Bicester also saw this man they should let us know."

The man was in his late 20s, about 5ft 9ins tall, had short dark hair and wore a dark anorak. Call police on 01869 364520.

Story date: Tuesday 02 November

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