A TEAM of bogus officials who carried out a series of burglaries on pensioners in the Darlington area have been branded "low life" by detectives.

It is believed three men were involved in the spate of seven burglaries on Saturday, between 10.40am and 10pm, and which targeted people aged between 70 and 82.

The homes of two pensioners, aged 77 and 80, were burgled in Bishopton, on the outskirts of the borough, while three more, 70, 72 and 80-year-olds, became the team's victims in Sussex Way, Darlington.

An 80-year-old in the Haughton area of town and an 82-year-old in Edmund Street, near North Road, also fell foul of the men.

On each occasion the men claimed to be water board officials, and one man distracted the victim at the front door while an accomplice went inside.

Items taken included jewellery, bank cards, porcelain ornaments and cash.

Detective Sergeant Alec Francis, of Darlington police, said: "Sadly, from time to time, this sort of offence does occur and, unfortunately, it is the elderly and the vulnerable who are targeted."

The men are described as white, and in their late 20s to early 30s.

The first had short, tidy hair, a fresh complexion, and wore a dark blue duffel coat. He spoke with a Welsh or Irish accent.

One of his accomplices was between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10in tall, with a pale complexion, a blue woollen hat and a zip-up anorak.

The final man is described as being about 5ft 6in tall, of medium build, with a weathered complexion and dark, cropped hair.

Anybody with information is asked to contact Darlington police, on (01325) 467681, or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.