POLICE have warned residents to be on their guard after a spate of thefts across Islington in which burglars have used fake roadworks as cover to steal from homes.

One elderly couple lost �4,000 to the gang, who set up the mock roadworks as a distraction before calling on nearby houses to gain access by pretending to be workmen.

On each occasion, two suspects have worn ID and told the victims that they worked for either the water board or private contractors.

In the first incident, in Corbyn Road, Finsbury Park, on February 4, a couple aged 87 and 91 had �4,000 in cash stolen.

Ten days later on Valentine’s Day, a mother and daughter, aged 73 and 52, had expensive jewellery taken from their home in Cornwallis Road, Upper Holloway.

The following day �500 was taken from the home of an 82-year-old man in Birchmore Walk, Highbury.

Police are urging residents not to let anyone into their home without an appointment, to check that all ID’s are bona fide and to call the police if they are at all suspicious.

Detective Inspector Trevor Borley said: “These burglaries have been really distressing for these elderly victims and we are doing everything we can to solve the crimes and catch the suspects. However, residents should be vigilant when a stranger knocks at their door, check for ID and ring the company or contact the police if you have any doubts.

“I would also urge neighbours, friends and families to speak to vulnerable elderly people about bogus callers and to monitor the security of their homes. In some of these cases victims’ had large sums of money stolen, so I would advise people to consider storing cash securely in a bank or a safe.”

- The descriptions of the men vary, but all the victims say both suspects are white and one is aged between 20 and 30.

Police ask anyone with any information about these burglaries to call Islington CID on 02074210159.