THOUSANDS of pounds were stolen from an elderly couple in their 80s, who let a man into their home after he claimed to be a new neighbour.

The caller kept the door open for two more thieves, one of whom took nearly £7,000 from a handbag in front of the elderly woman.

The man called at the home in Stanhope Road, Swanscombe, at 1.15pm on Saturday, July 26, asking to check the washing machine outlet, pipes and drains.

The ring-leader wore a T-shirt, was about 35, of small build, with brown hair and an Irish accent.

The second was 5ft 8in, medium build with dark curly hair. The third was around 25, 5ft 10in, with straight shoulder-length hair.

An hour earlier an 80-year-old woman in Paddock Close, South Darenth, had £200 stolen by two men asking to check her washing machine.

The first was 20 to 35, with blond hair, while the second was in his mid-20s, small and wore a cream T-shirt with red stripes.

A north Kent police spokesman said: “Both burglaries were extremely distressing for the victims.” Anyone with information should call 01322 283154 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.