AN elderly couple were robbed of their Christmas savings by a thief who posed as a workman.
The pair, who are in their seventies, lost hundreds of pounds in the incident, which took place between 11am and 12pm on Friday.
A man called at their door and asked for access to the house to check the water flow.
On being shown into the kitchen he distracted the couple whilst a second man entered the house and money from an upstairs bedroom.
The men then ran off towards Turner Street.
The incident was reported to police a few days later and officers are now appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Balbardie area of Bathgate to come forward.
Both suspects are described as white, 30-40-years-old with slim to medium builds and spoke with polite English accents.
A police spokesman said: “The money taken from the property was the couple’s Christmas savings and they have been left devastated by this theft.
“This particular distraction method is prevalent at the moment and we are keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing men fitting this description to contact us.
“Similarly anyone with any other information that can aid our investigation or assist in identifying the men is also asked to contact police immediately.
“Communities are urged to always check the identification of workmen calling at their homes and never allow anyone access to your home unless you are entirely certain that they are who they say they are.
“If you are in any doubt, call the company they claim to be representing and if you are still suspicious then call the police.”
