A woman had £450 stolen from her home last week after an unsolicited call from someone offering burglar alarm surveys.

Thieves entered the property in Marle Gardens, Waltham Abbey, between 3.40pm and 6.15pm last Thursday (February 4).

After entering through the back door, the burglars stole the cash and left.

Earlier in the day, the victim had received a call from someone claiming to represent a company offering free surveys for burglar and smoke alarms.

During the phone call, the homeowner told them she was going out and would not be back for a while.

Essex Police believe the burglary was linked to the telephone call, and advised members of the public not to give out personal details or the times they will be out of the home.

Anyone with information about the incident should phone Essex Police on 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.