POLICE are warning people to be vigilant after jewellery was stolen across Cambridgeshire in a series of distraction thefts.

The incidents happened in Wisbech and Peterborough and have all involved two women asking their victims for directions to a hospital to visit a sick relative.

After receiving the directions, the duo have tried to offer cheap necklaces and bracelets as thanks but use the distraction to steal jewellery already being worn by the victims.

The women have been described as foreign, possibly Eastern European, with tanned complexions. Police believe some of the incidents may be linked.

The most recent episode happened in Council Road, Wisbech on September 12, when a disabled man in a wheelchair in his 60s was approached by two women.

They stole two necklaces and a bracelet from him worth several hundred pounds.

Similar incidents happened in the town’s Tinker’s Drove at around 5pm on August 18 and in Cromwell Road at around 1.40pm on August 20.

Sgt Alan Boughen said: “We believe these women are deliberately targeting vulnerable, older people and we are keen to catch them as soon as possible.

“We would urge people to be vigilant and to call police if they have any information.”

Anyone with information should contact Sgt Boughen on 0345 456 456 4, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.