Sunburnt man sought after distraction burglaries in Hailsham and Pevensey

Wealden Police said it had received two reports of a suspect claiming to be collecting rubbish who has then burgled people’s homes.

The first incident happened in Peelings Lane, Polegate, late in the evening on Thursday (August 6).

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And the second was just off Stoney Lane in Hailsham, said police, mid afternoon on Monday (August 10).

The individual in both incidents is described as a white, sunburnt male with dark hair, and about 5ft 5ins.

Wealden Police wrote on Twitter, “We have received two reports of distraction burglaries on the district, one in Pevensey and one in Hailsham.

“The suspect is described as: a white male with dark hair, and a sunburnt complexion, 5’5 slim build and wearing a black vest and reporting to do work/collect rubbish.”

If you notice anything suspicious, or have any information about either incidents, contact police on 101 or report online at sussex.police.uk/

• Distraction burglary is when a person tries to gain access to your home by trying to trick you into believing they need help or are officials in the area

• Examples include people asking to use your phone as they have broken down, pretending to be from a gas or water company, and even pretending to be police or trading standards officers

• The advice is not to let anyone into your home unless you are expecting them or know them

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