DETECTIVES have set up an incident room to stop a team of bogus officials targeting pensioners.

Four people, aged over 80, were conned in incidents at homes in two areas of Darlington, on Monday.

Police believe the same team were responsible for a string of similar offences in the North Road area of Darlington, Newton Aycliffe and Chilton on December 28, last year.

Eight detectives are working in the incident room, while teams of uniformed officers are conducting house-to-house inquiries in an effort to close the net on the group, which consists of a woman and three men.

The team have been known to use a dark-coloured car.

All of Monday's distraction burglaries - two in the High Coniscliffe area and two at homes near the town centre - happened between 4.30pm and mid-evening.

On three occasions, the con artists posed as water board officials to get into their victims' homes, while on the fourth they told the victim they understood there was a car for sale at that address.

Officers are concerned that the run of attacks may continue.

Detective Sergeant Alec Francis, of Darlington police, said: "We are investigating strong leads in connection with these incidents."

So far, the group have made off with cash, jewellery, credit cards, handbags, wallets, purses and similar items.

Det Sgt Francis said: "In an effort to clamp down on this quickly, there are eight detectives on it and other officers doing door-to-door inquiries.

"We are trying to clamp down quickly on this type of crime and it is receiving a high level of response, particularly because of the age and vulnerability of the victims."

The incident room can be contacted on (01325) 742120. Police would like to hear from anyone who has information relating to any of the burglaries.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111, and people may qualify for a cash reward.