A BURGLAR claiming to be a window cleaner stole a 94-year-old woman's pension money.

The man got inside the house in School Road, Penn, High Wycombe,only to be disturbed by the resident.

He asked if she wanted her windows cleaned, but was told no.

After leaving he walked around the side of her home and looked through the side window.

The The victim later discovered her handbag and purse, which contained her pension money, had been stolen.

It happened on Wednesday between 8am and 9am.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed a man acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the offence to contact them.

This message to residents was issued by officers: “Distraction burglars prey on the elderly and vulnerable.

"If you see people calling at houses and are suspicious of their intentions, you are urged to contact police immediately.”

Householders should never open their door to a stranger and IDs should be checked if possible, police advise.

Anyone with information about the burglary should contact Det Sgt Nicola Pocock at High Wycombe police station on 0845 8 505 505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For more information about being secure in your home call the local crime reduction office via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505 or visit: http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/crprev.htm