A 25-year-old woman has been sentenced to a total of 39 months in prison after she was charged with two counts of theft and two counts of burglary.

Mandy Vickers was arrested in August this year, and charged with two counts of theft, after she tricked her way into the homes of elderly people in Mexborough by asking for a drink or saying, she needed the toilet. When she left they noticed items missing, such as purses and mobile phones. She appeared at Doncaster Crown Court in September where she was remanded in custody.

She was later charged with two further offences of burglary after tricking her way into the homes of elderly people in Hexthorpe and Balby.

She pleaded guilty to the offences and appeared at Doncaster Crown Court on Tuesday, 6 December, where she was sentenced to 39 months in prison.

PC James Burton said: "I am really pleased with this result. Mandy Vickers targeted elderly vulnerable people in their homes and I am glad she has been given this sentence.

"I would urge the public, particularly the elderly to be vigilant to these types of burglaries. Distraction burglars will try anything to get inside the property. If you are not sure, don’t open the door. Always ask to see ID if they are claiming to be from a company."