A PAIR of “evil” thieves who posed as waste collectors allegedly stole hundreds of pounds after tricking an elderly woman into letting them into her home.

The conmen carried out their brazen theft in broad daylight after offering to remove an old fridge freezer from outside the victim’s house in The Fremnells, Basildon, according to the victim’s family.

One of the men was able to swipe cash from the kitchen having initially asked to use a bathroom.

The woman’s grandson, who has asked to remain anonymous, has shared the story in a bid to warn people about the “disgusting” thieves who he fears are targeting elderly residents in Basildon.

“I was really angry and upset when I heard,” the grandson said. “One man said that something was leaking in his van and asked my grandmother to take out a plastic bag to help with the leak.

“While she was gone, one of the men went into her kitchen and took the money, she wasn’t sure exactly how much was in there but it was several hundred pounds, maybe even more.

“My grandmother is in her early 80s. She is very embarrassed that they caught her out and angry that she trusted them.”

The woman’s family are now looking to install CCTV.

The grandson added: “We are all furious. Targeting elderly, vulnerable people is the lowest of the low and the men should be ashamed and hope that people never treat their loved ones this way.

“I am very worried for all the other vulnerable people of Basildon.”

Council bosses have urged residents to be vigilant about people knocking on their doors.

Kevin Blake, deputy leader of Basildon Council, said: “The advice is if you are not expecting anyone, don’t open the door.

“If you want to dispose of anything, use a reputable company and if you’re not sure about this then use the council’s service. I feel sorry for this woman and I am sure it’s happening quite a lot.”

A police spokesman said: “Officers are investigating a report of a burglary in Basildon between 2pm and 2.30pm on Sunday 28 August.

“The woman stated that two men with a van knocked on her door and offered to take rubbish for her. She says that one of the men asked to wash his hands and went into her property. She discovered the money was missing.

“Anyone with information about the incident, or who has footage of it which has not yet been passed to us, is asked to contact us as soon as possible.”