A DEAF pensioner was burgled when a thief sneaked into her council home.

The 88-year-old woman, of St James Close, Haslingden, had left her front door unlocked, allowing the thief to gain access and search the property.

Insurance documents and £60 kept in a tin were stolen.

The victim's sister, also in her 80s, saw the offender and he made off with the valuables.

The offender was described as a white man in his thirties, with a skinny build, dirty, mousey hair and wearing dark clothing.

Police have just released the details of the crime which occurred at 11.30am on Saturday, October 13.