AN 86-year-old woman attending a funeral was tricked into handing over a handbag to a conman.

Police today expressed their disgust at the theft and said it "defies belief".

The woman was tricked into going into church as she waited for a funeral cortege to leave St James Church, Accrington.

While mourners gathered outside the town centre church following the service the pensioner was approached by a man who told her the vicar wanted to talk with her.

He led her into a side vestibule and offered to hang up her handbag for her.

While he had his back to her he removed items but she became suspicious and asked him to return it.

He stole a navy blue purse with £45 cash and a white envelope containing £100.

The co man handed the bag back before walking away.

Detective Sergeant Mark Rothwell said: "I am appalled that anybody should be targeted in their 80s but for somebody to target them while they are attending a funeral defies belief.

"I never cease to be amazed at the lengths some people will go to for a small financial gain."

The man is described as being white, aged 17-20, 5ft 7in slim, with short dark hair and clean shaven, wearing blue clothing including a jumper.

DS Rothwell said: "I would ask anybody who knows who this man is, or who saw him before or after the service in the church grounds to contact Accrington CID."

Anybody with any information about the incident on Tuesday should call 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.