Three men tricked their way into the home of a 101-year-old woman from Shepherd’s Bush and stole cash from her in a cruel con which left the victim vulnerable.

The thieves struck in Wulfstan Street on September 30, rummaging through the elderly person’s belongings before leaving with money.

Police say the victim is doing well despite the ordeal, and appealing for information.

The break-in occurred at around 4.45pm, when three men knocked on the centenarian’s door.

They flashed ID which the victim believes had a water symbol on it and convinced her there was a local water issue in the area and that they needed to check in her home.

While one man distracted her, his accomplices searched through her correspondence and cabinets, before making their way upstairs.

The trio pocketed cash before leaving.

Police are asking for anyone with information, or people who believe they may have been approached by the same gang, to get in touch.

They describe the suspects as white men wearing navy blue clothing.

The first male was tall, slim with short cropped hair. The other 2 were smaller and stockier than the first male.

Police are advising residents to carefully check ID and to refuse entry to people if unsure they are who they say they are.

If suspicious, look up their company’s number through Yellow Pages - do not phone a number they provide you as it may be part of the deception. Genuine staff will accept and be used to residents carrying out this procedure.

If issues continue dial 999 for police to attend and check.

Anyone with information can call 101.

In 2014 police gave a special Christmas gift to a pensioner who had his savings stolen .

And earler that year a couple who preyed on elderly people during their burglary spree were jailed.