Police are warning elderly people in Ledbury to beware of bogus callers following an incident in town and two in Hereford city, all of which are being linked.

All three distraction burglaries took place on Monday afternoon, within hours of each other.

DC Sue Prosser, of Hereford CID, said: "The men said they were workmen and used varying stories to gain entry into the homes of three elderly victims.

"The water board, council, gas or electric were used as an alibi and they were able to give plausible reasons to necessitate access. They were not carrying any identification.

"We cannot stress enough how important it is for householders to always insist on seeing identification. If in doubt, don't let them in and call the police."

Three men carried out a search for cash after tricking their way into the home of a pensioner in Callow End, Ledbury, around 2.20pm on Monday. Police have yet to establish the amount taken.

In all three incidents, one man was described as 6ft tall, with short wavy hair. He was slim and around 30 years of age. He was unshaven and wore a blue top with white stripes down the arms.

A second burglar was around 5ft 10 ins, medium build, aged between 20 and 30. He had light brown, wavy short hair, was clean- shaven and was wearing a blue top with a white motif on the left breast.

The third caller was younger, slim and around 5ft 5ins tall. He was possibly wearing a dark woollen hat.

The two other incidents happened earlier in the afternoon, at 1pm and 1.20pm, at Ledbury Road and Newton Farm, Hereford.

Anyone with information should phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or DC Prosser at Hereford on 08457 444888.