WINCHESTER police are appealing to residents to keep an eye on their elderly neighbours after two more pensioners were targeted in the last week.

In one incident would-be thieves tried to force their way into the home of an 85-year-old man through a back window and then trying a back door.

Although the raiders failed to get into the house, in Water Lane, they did cause £500 worth of damage.

This attempted break-in comes a week after thieves broke into a 79-year-old woman's sheltered flat in Water Lane and stole cash, keepsakes and memorabilia.

Police said the thieves got in through an unlocked bedroom window. They stole gold and silver coins which were keepsakes rather than currency, and some personal paperwork.

In a separate incident at the weekend a mobile phone and a pair of trousers with a wallet inside were stolen from a house in St Leonard's Road, Highcliffe.

Police believe the thieves got into the 85-year-old's house through a back window which was left open overnight between Saturday and Sunday.

After taking the Nokia mobile, valued at £40, and the trousers they left through the back door of the house.

Elderly people are being reminded to make sure their doors and windows are kept locked.

Det Sgt Chris Buse said: "We would advise homeowners, particularly the elderly, to be extra vigilant and keep windows and doors locked even when they are at home.

"The public needs to be watchful for elderly relatives, friends or neighbours that may be more susceptible to these types of crime. If you have an elderly relative pop round and ensure they have adequate security in place.

"Keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously in the area. If you spot anything unusual or worrying call the police immediately."

Anyone who knows anything about these latest incidents or is concerned for an elderly relative or friend should contact police on 0845 045 4545 or in an emergency dial 999.