AN 85-year-old woman has been left devastated after a "despicable" conman stole her life savings.

The pensioner, of Carluke Street, Whitebirk, Blackburn, was targeted by a man who is also believed to have launched a failed strike on an 94-year-old woman in Little Harwood.

Police today urged elderly people to be on guard while the conman remained at large and said they would try to do everything in their power to bring him to justice.

The conman knocked on the 85-year-old woman's door and said he was there to check some electrical appliances at around 3pm on Tuesday.

Police said she let him in because she had recently had workman carrying out similar work.

Once inside he asked her for something to eat and drink. She went into her kitchen to prepare something, giving him the opportunity to search her house.

He found what police describe as a substantial amount of cash of more than £1,000. When the pensioner returned with food and drink, he made an excuse and left.

Police said this swift exit left her suspicious and she soon discovered the money had been stolen.

Less than half an hour earlier the conman had called at the home of the 94-year-old woman, claiming to be from social services.

She let him in her home, but he left after she challenged him to produce identification.

Inspector Claire Holbrook said: "These are despicable and cowardly crimes against the elderly in our community.

"I am confident we will do everything in our power to bring these offences to justice."

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member covering social services for the borough, said: "Social services staff would try wherever possible to make an appointment before visiting and also would always carry identification."

Detective Sergeant Mick Cross appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

He particularly wanted to hear from parents picking their children up from the College of Islamic Knowledge and Guidance in Moss Street who might have seen the conman waiting in a car in Clinton Street.

The man was described as white, in his 40s, taller than 5ft 8in, with short brown hair, spoke with a local accent and was wearing a blue jacket and dark trousers.

Call Blackburn police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.