Thief gained access to home by claiming to be checking for water leaks

An 87-year-old woman has had her treasured Rolex watch stolen from her after a man tricked his way into her home.

On 15 March at some point between 12.00pm and 12.30pm a man in navy work overalls knocked at her door in Northolt claiming to checking for water leaks in the area. He insisted that he had to check her property. He went into the kitchen and bathroom before leaving.

It was not until two days later that the victim realised that her watch had been stolen and cash was missing from her purse.

The suspect is described as a white man, aged between 60-65 years old and around six foot tall. He spoke in an English accent.

Detective Constable Andrew Vyvyan, from Acton CID, said, "Following this incident, the victim feels very unsafe in her own home and has lost trust in everyone.

"The watch was given to her by her late husband as a present in April 1979, and it's of extreme sentimental value. Although the cash was also stolen, it's the watch that we really want to return to the victim."

Anyone who may know of the whereabouts of the watch is asked to call Acton CID on 0208 721 7110. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

March 22, 2018