RESIDENTS are being warned to remain vigilant after police revealed a man who tricked his way into a vulnerable pensioner's home could strike again.The would-be thief conned his way into his 79-year-old victim's house claiming he was checking water and gas supplies in the area.

RESIDENTS are being warned to remain vigilant after police revealed a man who tricked his way into a vulnerable pensioner's home could strike again.

The would-be thief conned his way into his 79-year-old victim's house claiming he was checking water and gas supplies in the area.

Though no money was stolen, police are warning residents to remain on their guard after the attempted distraction burglary on Tuesday in Eyre Close, Bury St Edmunds.

The man called at the pensioner's home claiming he was in the area checking the water and gas supply as a nearby property had been cut off.

He was allowed into the woman's property and went into the kitchen where he appeared to check the gas burners on the cooker.

After asking the woman to fill a pan with water and boil it on the hob, the man left, claiming everything seemed to be in order.

Although the victim was too upset to speak about her ordeal yesterday, a police spokesman confirmed nothing had been stolen and that no other offenders were seen during the incident, which happened at about 11.45am.

Dc Dan Connick said: "We would like to hear from anyone who had a similar caller at their door to contact us as a matter of priority.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who spotted any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident.

"We do not want to scare people but it is possible this offender may try and con his way into someone else's home."

The man has been described as white, in his early 30s to 40s and about 5ft 6ins tall. He was of medium build, had short dark hair and was clean-shaven. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a collared shirt, navy pullover, dark trousers and a dark jacket.

Dc Connick advised residents to ensure all doors and windows are locked before opening their front doors to a stranger, and ensure any caller is carrying legitimate photographic identification.

Anyone with information about the distraction burglary should contact Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.