A bogus gasman is believed to have returned to steal jewellery from a Shoreham home.

The man called at a house in Old Shoreham Road on August 13 and asked to read the gas meter.

He was wearing a red lanyard, but did not appear to have any other official equipment.

He then asked numerous suspicious questions about the occupants' time-keeping and security.

He is described as white, tanned, in his late 50s, of thin build with a gaunt face and grey hair that was thick at the back.

He was wearing blue shorts and a navy polo shirt and spoke with a southern accent.

On August 25 the property was broken into some time between 7.45am and 7.20pm and several items were stolen.

DC Paul Tonks, from Adur and Worthing CID, said: "After checking with power companies and establishing that there were no legitimate meter readers in this area on August 13, we believe this man could well have returned to burgle the house.

"A genuine representative of the power or water companies will have official identification and will not mind if you call their employer to check before letting them in."

Anyone with information is urged to call Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.