A terrified pensioner has warned homeowners not to trust any stranger who calls at their front doors.

The woman, who lives in a retirement complex in Weeke, was conned by a teenage gang this week in what police described as an "unusual" attempted burglary.

The 75-year-old opened her door at around 5pm to two girls, who claimed to be carers looking for someone living in another flat.

The woman walked down the stairs explaining that she did not know the resident.

After a further exchange outside another flat, the girls left and she returned to her flat when two boys ran past her.

She later realised her flat had been searched, but nothing had been taken.

Police are keen to trace the gang, and are also looking for an older man who was seen driving the four youngsters in a car.

Urging elderly residents and wardens to be extra vigilant, Det Con Richard Skillern said: "I would urge elderly people and wardens to be alert to groups of youngsters and not let them into their homes."

The victim said: "I'm OK now. I'm just cross at myself for letting it happen.

"I thought the girls were carers and they seemed very genuine to me.

"As soon as I realised what had happened, I thought, 'How silly can you get.'

"I would urge others to be prepared. Don't trust anyone at your door if you do not know them."

Police said a neighbour then reported seeing the four youngsters get into a white car, which was driven away.

The woman added: "It was quite distressing seeing the search that had been made in the flat. It's just downright destructive."

Police said the two white boys were aged 16-17, while the two girls, both blondes, were slightly older.

The driver is described as in his mid-30s, 5ft 7ins, of medium build with short, jelled hair.

PC Jamie Richardson advised residents: "If you have concerns about the reasons given by any uninvited callers, call the police immediately.

"You may think you are wasting our time, but you are not. The earlier we are made aware and the more information we have, the more chance we have of identifying offenders."