Bogus callers stole cash and jewellery from pensioners in Sheffield and Barnsley

He was allowed into her home in Bowden Wood Crescent, Darnall, and stole cash and the OAP's purse when he was left alone in one of her rooms.

The man, who struck on Tuesday, July 12, was white, in his 50s, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall, and had thinning grey hair.

He was wearing a black, waist length, padded jacket and had distinctive crooked, black, lower teeth.

The following day an 81-year-old man in Hawthorne Way, Shafton, Barnsley, answered his door to a man claiming to be from a care home.

He allowed the stranger into his house and handed over some jewellery when the conman told him it was 'standard procedure'.

The jewellery included a gold bracelet that was engraved, a gold chain with a gold cross pendant with the engraving ‘God Bless You Shirley’ and another chain with a gold pendant in the shape of the letter ‘S’.

The crook was white, in his 30s, of a medium build and short, brown hair. He is reported to have spoken with a Yorkshire accent.

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "Following two reported burglaries this week in Barnsley and Sheffield relating to bogus officials, officers are reminding the public to be vigilant about doorstep callers.

"While the two burglaries are not linked, officers wish to remind the public of the dangers of bogus officials and the importance of confirming the identity of those who call at your door.

"Officers are also keen to hear from anyone living in those areas of Barnsley and Sheffield who may have witnessed suspicious activity or have witnessed men matching these descriptions in their communities.

"Detectives in Barnsley particularly want to hear from anyone who may have been offered this distinctive jewellery for sale."

Witnesses to any of the thefts, anyone with information on those responsible or anyone offered the stolen jewellery should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.