These are the conmen who are targeting homeowners

The men are thought by police to be responsible for at least some of a series of distraction burglaries in the area.

They are targeting elderly residents who live alone. Their favourite excuse for knocking on a person's front door is the need for change for a bank note. But they have also offered to do gardening work or ask for a drink of water.

The burglary is committed when the resident has been distracted or by an accomplice who is able to enter the property unnoticed.

Detective Sergeant John Witt, of Arun CID, said: "We have seen a rise in distraction burglaries during the past month. We are anxious both to bring those responsible to task and to prevent further offences taking place.

"I would urge all residents to remain vigilant towards this type of crime.

"We know that offenders will look around residential areas for signals that a resident is elderly or vulnerable. A signal might be an uncut lawn, peeling paintwork or an aid to mobility such as a handrail."

Anyone with any information about the suspects should contact DS Witt on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

He added that police home safety visits can be arranged for individuals who could be at risk from bogus callers.

The visits can be arranged by contacting a local police officer through the www.sussex.police.uk website or by calling into Bognor Regis police station.

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