Conmen steal widow's rings

Con artists masquerading as council officials stole four gold rings, including an engagement ring, from a north Shropshire widow in her 80s.

Police are hunting the culprits who gained entry to the property in Ellesmere by claiming they were from the "water board" or "council".

They said they needed to check the taps because of a burst pipe nearby.

A large sum of money was also taken from the house in Berwyn View, Ellesmere, between 3pm and 3.30pm on Friday.

A similar burglary occurred in Albrighton, near Telford, hours earlier and police believe they could be linked.

Police spokesman Richard Ewels said: "Almost certainly, the caller distracted the occupier at both addresses by fiddling with taps and the plumbing while an accomplice slipped unnoticed into other rooms searching for money and valuables.

"These people can be very convincing and very persistent but we would once again remind people - especially the elderly - to be on their guard and not to let strangers into their home under any circumstances.

"We would always recommend that security chains should be fitted to doors."

He added: "Call Severn Trent Water Authority to check if there is a genuine problem, or contact the police on 03003 333000."