POLICE are appealing for information following an attempted distraction burglary at a home in Ipswich Road, Helmingham, between 7.45pm and 7.50 pm on Monday.

POLICE are appealing for information following an attempted distraction burglary at a home in Ipswich Road, Helmingham, between 7.45pm and 7.50 pm on Monday.

A man in his 70s answered a knock at the door, and a man in his 20s asked if he could check the water supply as he was building flats in the area.

This aroused suspicion in the victim who promptly sounded his personal alarm.

At this point another man appeared from the hedge and they both ran away in the direction of Ashbocking.

Detective Inspector David Rutterford from Mid Suffolk CID said: “I commend this gentleman's actions.

“He did absolutely the correct thing by sounding his alarm, which scared the offenders off.

“Distraction burglary is a despicable crime, which preys on elderly members of our society.

“I would urge residents not to let strangers into their homes without checking their identification and to alert police immediately using 999 if they are suspicious.”

Officers are also reminding residents not to let strangers into their homes without checking their identification and to alert police immediately using 999 if they are suspicious.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact Stowmarket CID on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.