An elderly man was targeted in a distraction burglary in Coleorton yesterday (Wednesday).

Leicestershire Police say that, at around 4.30pm on Wednesday (June 9), three men appeared in the back garden of a property in Loughborough Road.

The men approached the home owner, the elderly man, and his friend who was visiting, claiming to be doing some building work on a neighbouring property.

The men began to discuss some possible work on the victim's house.

While two of the men chatted to the victim and his friend, distracting them, the third man is believed to have entered the house and stolen a substantial quantity of cash and gold jewellery before all three men left in a vehicle.

The first suspect is described as in his 30s, around 5ft 9ins tall and of a muscular build.

He spoke with a slight Irish accent and was wearing a red jumper, jeans and a blue surgical face mask.

The second suspect is described as around 40-years-old, around 5ft 11ins tall and of a muscular build.

He wore a red bandana as a face covering.

The third suspect is described as around 55-years-old and described as having a large belly.

He also had balding hair and was wearing a flat style cap.

Detective Constable Glenn Spiby is investigating the incident and is appealing for information.

He said: "Sadly the jewellery stolen belonged to the victim's late wife, so he has suffered a financial loss but also a special sentimental loss as well.

"I would like to appeal to anyone who may have seen these men in the area yesterday or knows who they are to get in touch.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to warn those living locally of this incident and to be extra vigilant if they are approached in similar circumstances."

Anyone who has any information can contact police in 101 on quoting 21*319724. Alternatively, you can report online HERE.

Information about how to help protect yourselves from distraction burglars can be found HERE.