A CHILD burglary gang posing as carol singers are operating in Southend, it is claimed.

Details have emerged of a con like something out of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist with reports young girls are knocking on doors and singing carols to distract owners while older girls try to sneak around the back of homes.

Reports of separate addresses in Maldon Road being targeted have been made.

A 28-year-old mum-of-one said: “They knocked very loudly on my door at around 9pm in the evening when my son was sleeping.

“I opened the door and they started singing. It was a couple of young girls singing, while some older girls hung around the side of my flat.

“There were three of them in total and the younger girls looked about 11-years-old.”

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At first she gave them a couple of pounds but then she realised what they were doing.

She said: “I told them I had to go because my dogs will jump the gate to come out. I just wanted them to leave. The singing was awful.

“After I shut the door they hung around the street shouting and swearing.

“There was also couple of older kids on the street away from my door and nearly out of my sight.

“I think my dogs scared them off to be honest, luckily enough.

“I was shocked to be honest, I’ve never heard of anything happening or had anything like this the whole five years I’ve lived here.

“I’ve checked every window and doors are locked every day since.”

Similar reports have also been made.

Insp Ian Hughes, from Essex Police, has offered some advice to residents.

He said: “Be wary of those that might take advantage of the seasonal period. If in doubt, don’t answer the door.

“Ensuring your property is as protected as it can be on the run up to Christmas is very important.

“Locking windows and doors is an important way of securing your property, but make sure you know where the keys are in case of emergency.

“Creating the impression there is someone at home in the hours of darkest is a good way to deter criminals.

“Be confident to challenge any unknown visitors. If they are legitimate, they will have identification and will be more than willing to offer it for inspection.”