POLICE in Pendle have again warned people to ask for identification after two bogus officials conned their way into the home of an elderly woman in Brierfield.

The victim, in her 70s, was at home in Regent Street with her son when the men called at her house at around 3.30pm on Thursday.

They stole a handbag, containing her purse, cheque book, credit cards and other personal items, after pretending to be workmen.

Sgt Mick Collins, of Nelson CID, said: "Two men came to her front door and stated that there was a burst pipe next door and they needed to turn on the water in her house as a matter of emergency."

The woman, who thought they were plumbers or from the water board, admitted the men and stayed downstairs while her son went upstairs to the bathroom to turn on the taps.

He saw one of the men in the front bedroom looking around and asked him what he was doing. The man then left with his accomplice.

Sgt Collins said: "This is a callous and cowardly offence and one we believe they may have committed before

"We believe there may have been a similar incident in Reedley.

"I would appeal for people to be wary of these sort of approaches.

"No matter how genuine the information appears to sound, I would urge residents not to open their doors and allow entry unless they have been shown the correct identification and are satisfied with it.

"If they are not satisfied they should contact the department or service these people allege to come from.

"And if they remain in any doubt, they should not hesitate to call 999.

"If the callers are genuine, they will welcome people asking them for identification."

The men were white, in their 30s, one clean shaven and the other with course features. They wore dark clothing and appeared agitated and excited.

Anyone who saw the men or who has had a similar experience should contact Sgt Collins on 01282 472644.