POLICE in Marlborough say they are disgusted that bogus callers have resorted to using children to help them con pensioners.

On Monday at about 8.15pm, a 90-year-old who lives alone in the Salisbury Road area, answered a knock on the door to a woman and a boy, possibly as young as eight, who were claiming to be selling plants.

The boy asked to use the toilet and pensioner allowed them in. While the woman kept the old man talking, the boy searched the house.

Before leaving, the boy insisted on giving the pensioner a hug and while he was doing so, the old man could feel his pockets being frisked.

The pair went away empty handed but left the victim in a state of shock.

A neighbour also had callers that evening claiming they were selling plants but she described the younger person as a girl aged about 14 to 15.

WPC Emma Brown said she was disgusted a child, whether a boy or a teenager, was being used by crooks. Anyone with information should ring her on (01672) 512311.