Avon and Somerset Police are advising people in Bath to be extra vigilant after a fourth distraction burglary in a month took place.
The latest of the four incidents in Bath happened on Tuesday 3rd December at Hampton View, the home of a 78-year-old man, but was only reported to police on Thursday.
A man claiming to be mending a leaking pipe in the next door garden asked to come in to turn off a valve in the kitchen.
The elderly homeowner allowed him in. The man went into the dining room, and was seen to search through some drawers. He was challenged and left empty-handed.
It follows three earlier similar incidents in Englishcombe Lane, Southdown and Twerton in November where elderly people had cash stolen from their homes by bogus workmen.
The man who called at Hampton View is described as aged 35-40, 5ft 10ins tall, of medium build and with short dark brown hair. He was wearing a yellow fluorescent jacket and light blue jeans.
Police say the burglaries do not appear to be connected.
They are appealing for any information, and advising people never to allow strangers into their home. Call 999 if you have any suspicions.
For more advice please see the crime reduction and community safety pages on their website: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk