Distraction burglaries remain a major problem, figures released by Northamptonshire police suggest.

The practice involves a criminal tricking their way into a property by posing as an official, often claiming to be from a utility company.

They then attempt to distract the householder before taking valuables. Many of the criminals who carry out this type of theft target elderly people who live alone.

Northamptonshire police recorded 78 such crimes in the opening eight months of 2008, compared with 149 in the corresponding period of 2007.

Although pleased with the reduction, crime prevention officer Brenda Hart is concerned that the dark nights will tempt more criminals to try their luck.

She advised people not to invite unexpected visitors in before establishing their identity, adding: "Keep your door secured and don't open it to the caller, no matter how plausible their request might be. The caller should understand your concern and accept your decision."

The advice came just days after Cumbria police warned home insurance policy holders that distraction burglars posing as water board officials have been active in the county during recent weeks.

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