A MAN tricked a pensioner by telling her there had been an explosion in a Rossendale street before burgling her home.

He was part of a gang which told the elderly woman there had been a mains explosion close to her home on Hall Carr Road, Rawtenstall.

They told the 76-year-old they needed to enter her home, before rifling through her possessions and stealing valuables.

The incident took place at 1.30pm on Monday, August 10.

Her handbag has since been found by a member of the public who handed it in.

A police spokesman wants to know whether any neighbours saw anyone acting suspiciously or if they also received a visit.

He said: “An elderly resident of Hall Carr Road received a knock on their door.

“She opened the door and was asked by the male if he could enter to turn off her water supply due to a possible explosion near the mains.

“While inside the address a number of offenders have stolen items and became abusive to the occupant when suspicions were raised.

“We appeal to the public for any information in relation to this dreadful crime.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting crime reference EF1507390 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.