POLICE are warning people to be on their guard after cash was stolen from an elderly woman by a man who cleared snow from her drive.
Two men called at the house in Banks Avenue, in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, at about 4pm yesterday.
After clearing the drive one of the men asked for payment. He then asked to use the toilet and then for a drink of water. When the woman returned with the drink the man left hurriedly.
She then noticed cash had been stolen from her purse.
Investigating officer DC Stuart Temple, of Mansfield North CID, said: "This is an example of callous offenders exploiting the vulnerability of an elderly victim.
"We would like to hear from anyone who may also have received a visit from these two individuals or who saw them in the area of Banks Avenue on Saturday afternoon.
"Householders should also be aware that some offenders are always looking for opportunities to commit crime, and the snowy conditions have given these two men a pretext to offer a service which could disguise their real intention – to steal cash."
Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw the men or who may also have received a visit from them.
The man who went into the house is white, of slim build, with dark hair and a moustache. He was wearing grey clothing.
The second man, who remained outside, is also white, of medium build and around 5ft 9ins tall. He had short mousey-coloured hair and is believed to be aged between 20 and 23-years-old. He also wore grey clothing.
A white pick-up, possibly a Nissan Navarro style vehicle, was seen nearby and police believe this may also be linked to the men.
Anyone who has any information about this incident or who may have received a visit from these two men should telephone Notts Police on 101 and quote incident number 000520-19012013 or ask to speak to Mansfield North CID.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
