A PERVERT who made lewd comments through the letterboxes of two women before stealing a pair of knickers is being hunted by police.

The knicker thief struck at around 2am on Saturday, when women at two separate houses in Wordsworth Street, Hapton, were disturbed by him banging on their doors.

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Police said the man made sexually suggestive comments through the letterbox after they refused to open up to him before stealing a pair of knickers from one of the victim's washing lines.

Officers said he was wearing dark clothing, although detectives investigating the 'unusual incident' did not have a more detailed description.

Patrols have been stepped up in the area in a bid to reassure the public and to try and find the person responsible.

Cllr Joanne Greenwood, who represents the area on Burnley Council, said: "It sounds laughable but I'm sure it was very frightening and not funny for the two women involved.

"It's really bizarre. It sounds almost funny but it's absolutely serious and not funny at all for the victims.

"I'm sure when the police finally track down this guy, they will find he has issues because to steal underwear is just odd."

DS Alisa Wilson, from Burnley CID, is urging anyone who witnessed a man acting suspiciously in Hapton on Saturday to contact them.

She said: "This is an unusual and isolated incident which has left the two women shaken and distressed.

"I believe the man responsible may have been in the area for some time and I am appealing for anyone who may have seen him loitering to make contact with police.

"Patrols have been increased in the area and inquiries are ongoing to identify the man."

Cllr Jean Cunningham, who also represents the area on Burnley Council, said: "This is quite a disturbing thing to have happened.

"I would appeal for anybody who has any information whatsoever to come forward and help the police with their inquires.

"It's not something that I have ever heard of happening before and it gives me great concern.

"My advice to residents is that they should always keep the chain of their doors on and to remain extra careful, especially at night.

"I hope that the the police's investigation can be helped by anybody who can."