RESIDENTS in East Yorkshire have been urged to remain vigilant after a pensioner was targeted by bogus callers.

The 80-year-old woman was at her home in Bridlington Road, Full Sutton, when a man knocked on her door and told her he had lost his ball in her garden.

When they went outside to check, another man entered the woman’s house and stole her handbag, before both men fled in a car. Two men were later arrested. Police urged people to ensure their homes were secure, and to remain cautious when answering the door.

A police spokesman said residents should fit a chain to allow them to see who is calling before opening the door fully.

If in doubt, homeowners should not be afraid to close the door on callers, or phone the non-emergency police number 101.