POLICE investigating a spate of distraction burglaries across the county are urging the public to remain vigilant.

Six offences took place over the space on two days, including one incident in Broadwindsor.

The Broadwindsor distraction burglary took place on Thursday, March 31. Detectives believe the same man is responsible for all six incidents and he has been known to target flats and retirement accommodation. The suspect is described as white, aged in his 40s, taller than six feet and of stocky build.

PCSO Dave Ash from Beaminster Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: "There have been recent reports from across the county of doorstep sellers, claiming to be selling household goods, entering properties uninvited, distracting residents by asking them to write names and addresses down in a diary or on a piece of paper or asking to use the toilet, and then stealing any money they can find.

"Locally we received similar reports from the Broadwindsor area, although nothing is believed to have been stolen on this occasion.

"Dorset Police advise against engaging with cold callers, or doing business at the door, and strongly recommend that you do not let anybody that you do not know into your property."

The offender is believed to enter the main building and then check to see if any flat door is open.

If a door is unlocked he walks in and rifles through the victim’s possessions. The victim is usually in another room and is unaware this is happening.

The offender then approaches the victim and claims to be a salesman and offers cleaning products from his holdall. He then asks the victim to write their name and address down so his boss knows he has been there.

Detective Sergeant Mark Shields, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed these incidents or has been approached in this manner to contact police on 101.

“If you find a stranger in your home in any circumstances, dial 999 immediately.

“I would also urge the public to ensure doors are locked and if you live in a block of flats please do not allow access through the main doors to anyone you do not know.

“Always ask for ID and check the validity of anyone who comes to your door. Police and trading standing advice is very simple: do not buy from door step traders.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 55160051049. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.