Officers from the Priority Crime Team have released an e-fit of a man following a burglary at an address in Farnborough on Tuesday, February 10.

Police were called to Prince Charles Crescent around 8.15pm, after the 85-year-old female resident had discovered a man in her home, who claimed he was a police officer.

The man had left taking £230 cash, a ruby and diamond ring and a gold band with three diamond stones from the premises.

Earlier that evening, the same man had knocked on the door, again claiming to be a police officer, and told the woman he was checking on elderly residents in the area.

The woman had told him to leave as she thought he was suspicious.

Officers have now released an e-fit of the man, who is described as:

• White
• Dark hair
• In his late 40s
• About 5ft 3ins
• Stocky build
• Scruffy appearance and dirty looking
• Unshaven with stubble
• Wearing a grey anorak and possibly jeans

PC Penny Murray, from the Aldershot Priority Crime Team, said: "Burglary is a despicable crime where elderly people are often targeted.

"We would like to hear from anyone who can identify the man in the image, or has any information about who is responsible.

"Please don't worry about providing us with information as we can easily eliminate anyone who is not involved in this investigation.

"I would also like to remind people that a genuine police officer always carries a warrant card to identify themselves, with a colour photograph of the officer, the Hampshire Constabulary crest and the officer's identification number.

"Any resident who is suspicious of any caller should check the identification and refuse entry to their home until they are satisfied the caller is genuine. If you have any suspicion that the caller is not who they say they are, call the police immediately."

Hampshire Constabulary offers the following Safer Homes advice as part of its Operation Nemesis campaign:

• Stop - are you expecting anyone to call on you? Do you know the person at the door? Don't be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
• Chain - fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.
• Check - A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it.  Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from.

Burglars can make you believe they are genuine callers.  Don't invite them in.  If in doubt, keep them out!