Detectives are investigating two distraction burglaries and an attempted burglary in Crawley and East Grinstead involving suspects posing as medical staff to enter homes.

The incidents in Ifield Drive, Crawley and Fairfield Road, East Grinstead, occurred on 23 September at 3pm and 5pm when two women posing as nurses called at the addresses claiming to have been sent by doctors to provide medical care.

They gained entry and then one of them asked to use the toilet before leaving having stolen items of jewellery. They also entered another address in Ifield Drive on 23 September, but nothing was stolen.

Detective Sergeant Fraser Lockey said: “We are appealing for witnesses to these incidents and warning the public to be on their guard. We advise to always ask for photo identification of someone who calls at your home who is unknown and not to allow access if you are not expecting a visit. If in doubt, please phone 999.

“If you believe you may have been visited by these two people or have any information about them, please report online or phone 101 quoting Operation Dawn.”