Police in Southampton are appealing for witnesses after a distraction burglary.

A 73-year-old man was at home in Birch Close when a man knocked on the door claiming to be from the council.

He asked to check for water leaks that he claimed were coming through into the flat below.

The victim took the man into the kitchen where he checked for leaks and then the man left the premises.

The victim later discovered that the bedrooms upstairs had been searched although nothing had been stolen.

The man is described as white, in his 40s, approximately 5ft 9in and of medium build. He had brown greying hair and was wearing a dark grey working/old sports-type button jacket, just below waist length.

Police warned residents to attach a door chain before opening the door to strangers, remember council staff and contractors always carry ID and to look out for uniform and vehicle logos to be sure the person at the door is telling the truth.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Shirley CID on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.