ESSEX police have expressed their shock after a boy aged between 10 and 13 stole �1,000 worth of jewellery from an elderly lady.

The incident happened when the boy was visiting houses door to door along Holland Road in Clacton on Monday morning seeking sponsorship money.

When he knocked at the door of an 89-year-old woman, she handed over some cash, before the boy asked to use her toilet which she allowed.

The woman later discovered a gold necklace, a gold watch and a gold ring with a snakes head and diamond setting had gone missing from her bedroom.

Dc Mo Crawley of the Clacton Target Team said: “It is extremely unusual for someone so young to be committing such a serious crime.”

“We would be interested to hear from anyone else who was called upon by this boy and particularly from anyone who can add to his description or who may have knowledge of who he is or where he went.

“We would advise residents to never allow people, even children, who they do not know admittance to their property. If you are concerned about any unexpected callers, you should dial 999.”

Dc Tom Coppin who also attended to the incident after the lady’s son got in touch with police, said: “A witness described the boy’s age and I was quite surprised. It is unusual for a boy that young to be burgling houses. Normally it’s the older teenagers commiting these sorts of cirmes in the area. It’s just unfortunate that this time his age caught the lady out.”

Clacton councillor Pierre Oxley said crime is quite low in the area but also warned against elderly people letting anyone, no matter what their age, into their homes.

“It seems obvious but elderly people shouldn’t let anyone in without proper ID and a pre-booked appointment. They shouldn’t buy things on thier door-step either.

“When I was canvassing I was surprised at the number of people who left their doors unlocked.”

Peter Edwards, Secretary for the Tendring Alliance of Residents Groups, which represents one third of homes in the district, echoed Mr Oxley’s advice: “Unless you’re expecting someone don’t let them in but if you do, keep an eye on them and always lock your backdoor because thieves can work in pairs and target people that way.”

The suspect has been described as a boy of slim build with short dark hair. He wore light clothing, dark glasses and a black and white checked neckerchief around his neck and he was pushing a light coloured bicycle.

The Clacton Target Team can be contacted on 0300 3334444 or you can contact Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.