I think in this day and age its not easy to remain vigilant without thinking you are also being paranoid. I'd be thinking the same.
If you have reg no, I would report it to 101, just so it is noted. I'd also have a quiet word with the neighbours. Perhaps also put a big sign up saying "danger, rabid chickens/killer bees present".
Only other thing I can suggest is check outside your house to see if there are any paint/chalk markings (this is sometimes used as a code to accomplices)
The 'do you know the time' is a classic distraction tactic - used if the door answerer isn't wearing a watch - you potter off to look at the kitchen clock & your car keys (or whatever) are quietly lifted off your table by the door.
Keep your wits about you Ecclescake. That would make me very nervous. Tell family and neighbours and make it known to local police if it makes you feel better.
Could be inncent - they might be working together in so far as yesterday's guy said I've asked in Doodah Street and today's guy was supposed to ask in Doodah Avenue.
You did say they're Irish (sincere apologies to my lovely Irish friends)
Take the number plate from the van and validate it - I would use webuyanycar. Last time I did it the white van's registration was for a blue Nissan Micra!
Dave....I didn't know that and it's useful thank you.....
I wear no watch and by the time I'd found a working timepiece in my house they could have removed all the furniture too.....I shall remember that.....x
no I think it is odd
and yeah I agree with the distraction robbery bit
and chalk marks
there is a report that the pattern on the driveway was a woven into the design and the householder thereafter didnt get a moments peace
I had an ex con tenant buy a carpet and his pals came to fit it at my house (!). when I said wrong house one was up the stairs like a rat up a drain pipe with 'can I use your lavatory?'
I said - "you are freaking me out - if you dont leave I will call the police"
so yeah or no I dont think ou are being paranoid
( ex tenant is not an ex-con and is back in prison)