AN appeal has been launched after a man in his 80s has been the victim of distraction buglary at his Somerset home.

The incident happened at around 7pm last night (December 4) in the West Street area of the town.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "A man entered the back door of the victim’s property advising he needed to check on an outbuilding.

"At the same time, a second man entered the back of the property and let a third man in via a front window.

"They subsequently searched the house before leaving with a quantity of cash."

The offenders are all described as white, aged in their 20s, of slim build and wearing dark clothing with their hoods up.

"As part of our inquiry specialist crime scene investigators have examined the property and house to house enquiries have been carried out," the spokesman added.

"Officers will also be reviewing CCTV footage from the area."

Anyone who witnessed three men acting suspiciously in the West Street area last night, or who has any other information which could help, is asked to call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5220273068.