YOUNG women are distracting older men with sexual advances to steal their watches and jewellery.

Police said men in their 50s and over are being targeted and urged the public to be on their guard.

At least six incidents have been reported in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Weymouth in less than six weeks.

During each incident, men have been approached in the street or outside their homes.

There have also been reports of similar thefts elsewhere in the country including Manchester and Cheshire.

The women involved are described as white, of Mediterranean or Eastern European appearance, aged in their 20s or 30s and with dark hair.

Detective Sergeant Adam Woolman, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said the incidents are being linked and he urged any other victims to come forward.

He warned the public to be on their guard and said anyone with information should call police on 101 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.