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

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

The 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 11.15am and 11.45am.

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

The distraction burglar was white, aged between 30 and 35, approximately 5ft 10in, slim, with short, black hair.

He was wearing a brown jacket and dark trousers and 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.