Two fraudsters have been jailed for a series of offences across Reading, High Wycombe and Maidenhead.

Gilbert Henning,46, of Cumbrian Way, High Wycombe and Minodora Mitrache, 49, of London Road, High Wycombe, were both sentenced to a total of two years’ imprisonment at Reading Crown Court on Monday, March 25.

They had pleaded guilty on March 11 to two counts of conspiracy to steal and seven counts of fraud by false representation.

Their offences took place between June 27 and February 5.

Henning and Mitrache targeted victims in Reading, Wallingford, Maidenhead and High Wycombe.

They would target victims who were out shopping and would gain their PIN numbers by standing close to them while they were purchasing goods or withdrawing money from cash points.

They would then follow their victims before distracting them and stealing their cards. They would then use the cards to purchase items.

They were charged on February 9.

Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Chris Quinlan, based at Maidenhead police station, said: “Henning and Matriche travelled across the Thames Valley to commit these offences.

“They would target lone, vulnerable females going about their daily business, before stealing their cards and spending their money.

“I would like to thank the officers involved in investigating these offences for their dedication, and the victims and witnesses for their co-operation throughout.

“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate these sort of offence, and I hope that these sentences serve as a warning to others.”