A MAN fell victim to a distraction burglar who claimed to be working for the water board.

The 70-year-old man answered a knock at his Wisbech home at about 2pm Tuesday. He opened the door to a man who said he was working on the water and needed to empty all the kitchen cupboards.

The man then told the victim to go the bathroom and flush the toilet. When he returned he found that an amount of cash and two packets of cigarettes had been stolen.

The suspect is described as aged between 41 and 60 years old, white, around 5ft 9in, with black hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a light tracksuit top and black trousers.

A police spokesman said: “Distraction burglary is a despicable crime which can be carried out in a variety of ways and often on elderly and vulnerable victims.

“There are a number of precautions people can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

“It is also important that people remain vigilant to activity in their neighbourhood, particularly in areas with vulnerable or elderly residents.”

CONTACT: Police on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.