Edith Lidstone, from Eastleigh, Hampshire, lost more than �150 when two men entered her home claiming to need to measure her fence for repairs.

She has spoken about the incident to give Hampshire Constabulary's new campaign added publicity.

The force hopes to raise awareness of the ploys used by conmen.

These people have no morals and some will even use their own children to gain your trust Det Chief Insp Linda Dawson

Mrs Lidstone was targeted last month by two men claiming to be the sons of one of her neighbours.

One then took her into her kitchen and stood in front of the door while his accomplice burgled her house.

She said: "I was horrified when I realised what had happened to me.

"My husband used to be a police officer so I thought I knew what to watch out for, but the men were so convincing.

"I fully support the police campaign and I really hope that I can help them to raise awareness of what these people will do to trick their way into people's homes.

Posters and leaflets are being put up in libraries and community centres across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to highlight what people should do if they have a suspicious caller.

Det Chief Insp Linda Dawson said: "These people have no morals and some will even use their own children to gain your trust.

"That's why our message is if someone calls at your door who you don't know, don't let them in."