Conmen used two boys and a story about an injured dog to steal cash and jewellery from an elderly couple.

The boys claimed their dog had fled into the couple's garden after being run over, and asked for help to find it.

While Roy Armson, 76, went to help the boys, one of two men who was with them slipped unnoticed into the couple's home and stole a wallet containing £75 and cards, and his wife's jewellery.

Mr Armson, of Great Dalby, near Melton, said: "We were watching television when we heard a bang on the window.

"I took pity on them when they said their dog was hurt and I said I would help them find it.

"As I went out with them round the back of the house, they were shouting something but I couldn't make it out."

Mr Armson was not aware of the two young men with the boys until he returned to the front of his property.

He said: "They said they were the police and they were looking for the boys.

"The one who was doing the talking was very smartly dressed. The other one had his arm round the boys. My wife and I asked them if they had any ID, but he just said, 'let's get the boys sorted out first'."

The boys were aged between 12 and 15.

Mr Armson said: "People who would use two young lads that age to get you out of your house are scum. They might have tried this act before somewhere and I want to stop it happening to other people."

The incident happened at about 6.45pm on Tuesday, February 10. The two boys are white and of slim build.

The two men are also white, aged between 19 and 23, and about 5ft 7in.

Police are appealing for information.

A spokesman said: "Fitting and using a door chain or spy-hole to the front door will help you to check who the caller is before opening and if they cannot produce an official identity card then do not let them in.

"A genuine caller will not mind you checking their ID and most will be happy to make an appointment and return at a later date or time. If you are in any doubt, contact the police."

Anyone who might have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Pc John Scott on 0116 222 2222.