POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an elderly couple were targeted by two conmen.
The couple, both aged 70, of Oslo Road, Burnley, were at home around 2.30pm on Monday when a man called claiming to be offering roof repairs.
When he took the couple to the back of the house to inspect the slates, a second man sneaked into the house and stole a handbag containing £200 from the kitchen.
Det Sgt Derek Jones, of Burnley CID, said: "We are appealing for witnesses to this callous crime and would urge anyone with information to come forward.
"People always need to be on their guard against bogus callers and should always ask for some sort of identification before letting people into the house. If in doubt they can always call the police."
The first offender was described as between 30 and 40 years. He was seen leaving the area in a small dark vehicle. Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Burnley police on 01282 425001.
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