Elderly people should remain vigilant when answering their front doors after a spate of incidents involving a suspicious female thief.

Enfield police say they think the thief rummages through rubbish to learn personal details of potential victims.

She is then able to call the elderly person she calls upon by their christian name, earning their trust and gaining entry to their home.

It is known to the police that she has been allowed into one property in north Enfield, where a theft took place.

Residents have been told to shred any waste with personal details on before putting it in the bin.

Those who have security chains, bolts or other similar safety devices have been advised to use them.

And those elderly or vulnerable resident’s who do not have such measures, are being encouraged to have them fitted.

The suspect has been described as white, in her early thirties with mousy blond hair.

She may or may not be pregnant.

Anyone with information that may lead to an arrest should telephone 999 or 101.