TWO men tricked their way into a home and stole jewellery by telling the resident they were from the council.

The men, who had Irish accents, told the woman they needed to check the water pipe in her Rochdale Way home in Greenstead.

The woman, who was alone, let them in and they went upstairs and stole jewellery. Both men were white.

The first was between 30 and 40 with short greying hair and a beard and was wearing a blue baseball cap.

The other was in his 20s and was thin with short dark hair. Essex Police are urging people to be aware of bogus callers.

Dc Alison Cotter from Colchester CID said: "I would urge all people to ask anyone knocking at the door for identification.

“Unfortunately bogus callers do operate.

“If you are suspicious, report it to the police.

“Most people who call at your home will have a genuine reason for doing so but by taking a few simple precautions you can protect yourself and your home.”

Anybody with any information about this incident or who may have seen anybody acting suspiciously in the area is asked to contact Colchester CID on Essex Police 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.