An investigation has been launched in Barnet after an elderly woman died following a burglary.

Police were called at 6pm yesterday to reports of a burglary at a home in Bells Hill, Barnet.

The victim a 77-year-old woman called police after two suspects had forced entry to the premises and had stolen property – she collapsed while on the telephone to the police operator.

Police and London Ambulance Service got to the scene and performed CPR.

The woman was taken to a north London hospital in a critical condition - She died later this morning.

Her next of kin have been informed and a post-mortem examination will be held.

A crime scene is in place and enquiries are underway to establish if the burglary is linked to three other burglaries in the area.

There have been no arrests.

DCI Noel McHugh from the Homicide and Major Crime Command will now be leading on this investigation.

He said: “Our focus now is catching the culprits behind this burglary which has contributed to the death of an elderly woman.

“We are doing everything we can to build a clear picture of this incident.

“This includes looking at three other break ins that have been reported in the nearby area.

“Both suspects involved are described as white males aged in their twenties and of thin build. They wore dark woolly hats and dark clothing.

“Any burglary is an awful and harrowing experience which can leave many feeling uncomfortable in their own homes.

“This burglary has ended with the worst possible consequences.

“A wonderful elderly lady has died.

"With that in mind, I want to reach out and make a direct appeal to anyone from the criminal fraternity who has information to contact us.

“You will know, and discussions will be going on about who is involved and where any stolen property is, I need you to have the confidence to call police and let us know who is responsible.

"The public will see a significant police presence in the area. This will include house to house enquiries, CCTV gathering and forensic work to identify the individuals involved."