Quick return of stolen chest

Raiders used a stolen van and a cruel trick to get into the home of a vulnerable elderly resident on Wednesday and make off with the chest and other valuable antiques.

Inspector Max Mosley said a man called at the pensioner's large detached home in Cooden saying he had "lost a cat." The caller left a white van in the driveway of the house.

But while he and the householder searched the garden an accomplice loaded the van with antiques.

It was later discovered that the van had been stolen in Hastings.

Salvo officers swooped after the loaded van turned into Suffolk Road, Sidley shortly after 8pm. The occupants decamped.

Despite a search including use of a tracker dog assigned to Salvo the men eluded police.

Inspector Mosley said: "The whole distraction burglary initiative last year was designed to raise awareness that there are these people about.

"The fact is that stories like 'lost' cats and 'injured' people outside, people calling asking for a 'glass of water' or directions are often completely spurious.

"Police advice is 'Stop, chain check.' Put the security chain on your door before answering it. Speak through the crack. Call police immediately if you are suspicious using 999.

"Don't forget, every bona fide official will have an identification card and will not object in the slightest to having their identity checked. If you can record the index number of the vehicle so much the better.

"Also, please look after your neighbours. Getting the message across to elderly, vulnerable folk takes time. Alert them but don't distress them."