A pair of callous distraction burglars who targeted elderly homeowners in Cheltenham have been jailed.

James Paul Johnson, of Princess Elizabeth Way, was convicted of three counts of distraction burglary and one count of theft from a person at Gloucester Crown Court on Wednesday.

He was sentenced to seven years in prison.

Andrew Spence, 46, of Monkscroft in Cheltenham, was convicted of one count of distraction burglary and sentenced to three and a half years.

One of the victims was a 94-year-old man living in Leckhampton.

Speaking outside court, DC Jackie Rosewell, who led the investigation, said: "We are pleased these men have been convicted and the sentences reflect the crime.

"These kinds of burglaries are despicable because the offenders deliberately target the most vulnerable members of the community."

For the full story, see Thursday's Echo.