DETECTIVES are hunting a man and woman duo who conned three pensioners and stole £1,500-worth of their property.

Police have slammed the crime as 'despicable' and are now carrying out door-to-door inquiries and interviewing the victims to try and trace the offenders.

The couple struck at an elderly people's complex off Cogg Lane, Burnley, between 7.40pm and 7.55pm on Wednesday night.

During all three incidents elderly women aged about 80 years old were targeted by the couple, who used distraction techniques while the other raided their homes.

Detective Sergeant Pete Simm said: "Police were due to speak to the three woman to get more information today.

"We are linking the three incidents because the location, time and the descriptions all correspond with each other."

Cash, purses and jewellery were taken from the homes by the thieves after using the intercom and trying to befriend the pensioners.

Det Sgt Simm went on: "One engaged them in conversation trying to befriend and confuse them, while the other one gained access to the house.

"I would appeal not only to those people who live in the area, but to those who know the identity of the people that are responsible for these crimes to contact us. These are despicable offences against the elderly and we are keen to detect the offenders."

The male is described as of thin build, slim features, 6ft, short brown hair, early 30s, wearing a long, black scruffy coat.

The female is 5ft 2ins, olive complexion, scruffy dark hair and wearing a black beanie-type hat.

Anybody with information should contact Burnley Police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.