A pensioner from Filton who stopped a doorstep conman has helped launch a police campaign against distraction burglars.

Jon Rendle was paid a visit by a man claiming to be a plumber.

But while the imposter was talking, Mr Rendle, 76, believes an accomplice was trying the back door.

Mr Rendle, an antiques dealer who has cancer, saw through the deception and called the police.

The men left before they were able to take anything, but many others are not so lucky.

Bristol is a target for distraction burglaries because its location and transport links can mean a quick getaway.

So Avon and Somerset police have launched a poster campaign to protect elderly and vulnerable people who are often the victims of doorstep conmen.

The campaign, called "Not Sure… Don't Open the Door" warns people about the tactics used by bogus callers intent on burglary.

Mr Rendle attended the campaign launch at the Age Concern Bristol Day Centre in Withywood.

He said: "The chap knocked on my door and said that he was fixing some water pipes down the road and needed to check that mine were OK.

"I knew that my pipes were fine and so I said I didn't want him to come in.

"But he was very persistent and kept saying that I must let him in and that it was essential that he check mine as well.

"I thought that if I was going to let him in then I at least wanted to see some identification, so I asked the man for ID.

"He said that he'd left it in his van but assured me he was a legitimate plumber.

"I still insisted he show me his ID and he left – saying he would get it from his van but he never came back. Clearly he wasn't who he was claiming to be."

PC Andy Williams said this was typical of the tactics used by distraction burglars.

He said: "It's your doorstep and your home, don't let anyone in if you don't want to. If they are a legitimate caller they won't mind making an appointment for later.

"The amount of money taken is less important than the fact it happened in the first place, it can be hugely undermining of confidence.

"Victims say to me, he was ever such a nice man, but of course he was, he's trying to get into your house and steal your money.

"It's despicable, and even the criminal fraternity have a low opinion of distraction burglars."

PC Williams said if the offenders are still on the scene call 999, but if you have concerns after they have left call the non-emergency force number 0845 456 7000.

The campaign posters will be put up in post offices, doctors' surgeries, places of worship, and hospitals around the Avon and Somerset area.

Charity Age Concern is also backing the campaign.

Marketing manager Jessica Lewin said: "Distraction burglary is a heartless crime which can have a devastating impact on older people, both emotionally and financially.

"Simple actions such as using the door chain or having adequate locks fitted on doors and windows can give older people an edge against burglars and bogus callers."