TWO conmen who claimed to be from the water board stole an antique diamond ring from the home of a 70-year-old woman.

The bogus callers told the woman they were from 'Rentokil, working for the water board on behalf of South Ribble Borough Council'.

Police in Bamber Bridge have branded the pair as 'callous thieves' and have urged anyone with information to come forward.

The woman was working in her back garden when they called just after 4pm on Monday.

They said they had put red dye in the water and wanted her to turn her taps on to see if it had come through.

One man took her into the kitchen while the other dashed upstairs and ransacked her bedroom stealing the gold ring which was encrusted with five diamonds. They also took a gold bracelet-style watch, some dress earrings and a driving licence.

The woman saw the second thief coming down the stairs but was confused, and the pair ran out of the back door.

Detective Sergeant John Cass, of Bamber Bridge CID, said: "This is a despicable crime to prey on the old and vulnerable and they have made their victim go into a state of confusion where she's felt helpless to prevent it.

"Both offenders would have to be particularly hard faced and callous."

Police cannot be certain the crime is linked with other similar incidents in Preston, Chorley and Leyland, but are not ruling it out.

The thieves were both white and in their 30s. The first man was about 6ft, of medium build and with short dark curly hair. He wore a yellow shirt and a black or brown jacket.

The second was 5ft 6ins, of stocky build and with short fair hair.

Anyone with information should contact Bamber Bridge CID on 01772 415744 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.