AN 85-year-old woman had her purse stolen from her home by a man claiming to be from Trading Standards.

The man tricked his way into her home in Sudell Road, Darwen, on Tuesday.

The elderly woman asked him to leave when he began claiming that she owed money for work done on her house.

He stole her green purse, containing £10, from the living room as he left the property between 1.15am and 11.45am.

Detectives have launched an investigation and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The distraction burglar was a white man, aged between 30 and 35, approximately 5ft 10ins, slim, with short, black hair. He was wearing a brown jacket and dark trousers and he spoke with a local accent.

Det Con Janine Harwood, of Darwen police, said: "This was a despicable crime against a vulnerable elderly lady and I urge anyone who recognises the description of the man to contact us immediately.

"I also appeal to local people to recall whether they remember seeing this man in the area on Tuesday morning or if they were visited by this man, please contact us."

Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.