A manhunt has been launched after a brazen crook snuck into a 66-year-old women's house in Prestwick during a bogus call.
Cops have put residents on high alert as they launch a probe into the incident on Wednesday afternoon.
Two men visited the women's house in Lichtenfels Gardens posing as Scottish Water workers.
One man distracted the victim whilst another man snuck in and attempted to steal from her at around 4pm.
Suspecting the men were crooks the woman bravely challenged them and they left the property empty handed.
Officers are now trying to track two men who were driving a white transit van with no signage on it.
One man has been described as being of heavy build, thick black curly hair, with facial hair and a generally scruffy appearance. He was wearing jeans and a yellow, high-vis vest over a t-shirt.
Officers say they have limited detail on the second man — describing him as slim and wearing dark coloured clothing.
Chief Inspector Kevin Lammie, area commander for South Ayrshire said: "This type of crime is a priority for South Ayrshire police and working with partners, we will continue to target rogue traders and bogus callers who target often the most vulnerable in our communities.
"I would encourage people to look out for family members, report any suspicious activity and share key prevention messages which include not to engage with any uninvited callers at the door or those who attempt to scam callers over the phone.
"I would urge anyone with concerns about crime in their community to contact their local policing team."
Police Scotland can be contacted on 101 (in an emergency always dial 999). Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
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