Police are warning people to be vigilant at cash points in Watford after a distraction theft last week. 

The incident occurred last Thursday in Barclays in the High Street at around 11am.

A man, who had previously withdrawn cash from the Nationwide, was queuing to pay in money in the bank when a woman approached him and offered her help. Whilst the man was distracted, a second person removed the cash from his pocket.

Detective sergeant Jo Goodson from the local crime unit in Watford is investigating, and said: "Both high visibility and covert patrols are taking place in the High Street to combat this crime.

"The victim was aged in his late 60s and we’re finding that older people are generally targeted by the offenders. I would renew advice to people, particularly the elderly, to be vigilant when using ATM machines or when in banks. Always shield your pin from view and be aware of anyone who is in the immediate vicinity."