JEWELLERY and thousands of pounds in cash has been stolen from homes across south Essex by burglars posing as workmen.

A 93-year-old woman was targeted at her home in Wakering Road, Shoebury, in the latest incident.

Men knocked on her door claiming to be gardeners at about 9.50am on Friday, May 5. While she was in conversation, one of the group entered her home and stolen hundreds of pounds in cash.

Police have only just released details of the distraction burglaries.

The first in an 11-day spree began at 11.10am on Monday, April 24. Five men posing as tree surgeons tricked their way into a 84-year-old man’s home in Russell Gardens, Wickford.

They distracted him before leaving with thousands of pounds in cash.

At around 10.30am on Wednesday, April 26 men claiming to be gardeners stole jewellery, personal documents and cash from a 54-year-old woman in Royston Avenue, Southend.

At 11.30am on Thursday, May 4 men posing as gardeners distracted an 85-year-old woman in Bramble Road, Benfleet, and took cash and a purse.

Later that day at 3pm, a 63-year-old woman in Ness Road, Shoebury, was visited by men pretending to be tree fellers. Jewellery and cash were stolen from her home.

Det Sgt Rachel Jeffery said: “Suspects are knocking at homes and are either claiming to be cutting trees at a neighbouring house or gaining access to victims’ homes by offering services such as tree felling or cleaning roof tiles.

“They are using large vehicles with signage on the side panels, wearing high visibility clothing and are issuing leaflets.

“If someone you don’t know knocks at your door, always ask for identification.

“All genuine callers will have identification and won’t mind you asking to see it.

“If you’re still not sure, ask them to come back at another time and don’t feel pressured into letting someone into your home if you don’t want them there.

For more advice, visit ageuk.org.uk/home-and-care/home-safety-and-security/doorstep-scams/doorstep-scams

Call officers at Southend CID on 101.