TWO thieves who claimed they were water board officials shoved their way into the home of an 80-year-old man in Darwen.
The pair stopped the victim as he was going into his home in Sudell Road at about 9pm on Monday and claimed there was a leak in his back garden but they would fix it.
The pensioner was suspicious and turned down their offer.
But they forced their way in and stole £35 in cash, a Halifax bank card and a bus pass.
DC Mark Hogan of Darwen CID said: "The man declined their help but they pushed past him through the door.
"While one kept him distracted in the kitchen, the other went and did a search through the house upstairs.
"This is a particularly callous offence given the vulnerable nature of a man of his age."
Both robbers were white, aged between 30 and 40 and 5ft 7in tall.
One was of medium build and wore a long- sleeved jumper while the other was stocky and wore a dark leather jacket.
Anyone with information should telephone Darwen police on 01254 353830 or Crimestoppers.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article