A pensioner today told of her anger after a distraction burglary stole money she had been saving to pay for her own funeral.

IPSWICH: A pensioner today told of her anger after a distraction burglary stole money she had been saving to pay for her own funeral.

A police investigation is underway after a man pretending to be a plumber called at the 83-year-old's home in St Georges Street, Ipswich, between 12.30pm and 1pm on Wednesday.

While the man, described as white and around 18 to 20-years-old, checked taps in the kitchen and bathroom, a second person entered the property and stole �1,200 from a bedroom.

The elderly victim, who was too afraid to be identified, said she wants the suspect and his accomplice caught before they strike again.

“I'm cross with myself because I trusted him and left the front door open when he was inside,” she said.

“I never heard anyone else in the flat when I was in the kitchen with him. I'm vexed about it and now I just want to see them caught.”

The victim's daughter added: “The family are very upset and disappointed that someone could target an elderly person who had nothing but savings that would have been used to pay for her funeral.

“We're heartbroken that this has left a kind-hearted vulnerable person feeling so upset at this time of year.”

The woman was able to describe the man she saw as clean-shaven, wearing dark clothing and with short sandy hair, which was spiky on top.

Detective sergeant Darren Bruce of Ipswich CID called the incident a particularly reprehensible crime on a vulnerable person during the festive season.

He added: “We would like people to be aware of this kind of crime especially at this time of year and to take simple steps to avoid becoming a victim.

“We urge people that if they are unsure if a caller to their home is genuine, do not let them in and call the police.”

If you think you recognise the man from the E-FIT likeness or have any information about this incident please contact Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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