Two men tricked a Mid Sussex pensioner into handing over a valuable clock.
They gave the 81-year-old woman £30 for the clock, then rushed off with it before she realised what was happening. The clock is worth much more.
Her husband, also 81, who did not want to be named, reported it to the police but they said no criminal offence had been committed.
The couple, from the Denham Road area of Burgess Hill, are now warning others to be vigilant after the incident on Monday.
The husband said: "They forced their way in and slapped £30 in her hand and picked up the clock.
"My wife is quite upset but it is legal because she took the money. I just want to warn other people. I don't want anyone else to be conned."
PC Andy Gavin, of Burgess Hill police, said they had been informed of the incident and although no crime had been committed they were making efforts to make people aware.
He said: "Unfortunately it is the elderly they prey on. They agree to sell something and then later they realise it is a problem.
"We take these things very seriously and try to put a stop to it if we can."
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