AN ELDERLY woman was robbed of a "substantial amount" of cash by a conman who told her an explosion could kill her.

And police warned residents after a man with the same description was seen approaching other houses in the area.

The man struck in Brownhill Avenue, Blackburn, on Thursday around 3.50pm. DI Neil Hunter said the man banged on the pensioner's door. Although she had an intercom system, he was insistent she come to the door and told her there had been an explosion in the area. When asked for identification the thief said there was no time due to the so-called danger.

DI Hunter said: "This man told her that he needed to check her boiler in case there was another explosion. Once inside he directed her to the kitchen to check the water pressure. He kept her engaged while he went through other rooms and made off with the substantial amount of money." Police believe the man made off in a red estate car, which sped off at high-speed.

DI Hunter said homeowners must never let people in without ID -- whatever the circumstances.

The man was described as in his late 30s to early 40s, 5ft 11ins tall and of medium build. He was balding, with a small moustache and spoke with an Irish accent.

Contact Blackburn Police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.