PENSIONERS were today being put on alert after bogus callers who have been plaguing Pendle struck again.

An 86-year-old woman, of St Stephens Way, Colne was fooled into letting two mencon artists acting as representatives from social services into her home.

The lady allowed the men into her home, at about 2.45pm on Wednesday. They then picked up her handbag and started searching it before being disturbed by her visiting daughter.

Police Sergeant Vicky Haworth, of Colne police, said: "They didn't get away with anything because the lady's daughter came into the house and disturbed them.

"We know these men have been in the area previously after officers carried out door-to-door inquiries. They have approached other homes, but people have turned them away.

"We need to emphasis the need for vigilance and warn people to be cautious, especially when answering the door to strangers. If anybody wants any advice about crime prevention then they should ring their local station and ask for the crime prevention unit."

The first man is described as a white male aged 28, 5ft 8ins tall, stocky, with stubble, dark brown scruffy hair, wearing a denim jacket, beige sweat shirt, dark trousers and with, possibly, Liverpool accent. He was also carrying a black holdall bag with red stitching.

The second man seen in the area is a white male carrying the same style of bag with red stitching, aged 45, 6ft tall, stocky, blond skinhead hairstyle, wearing a black bomber jacket and black trousers.

They have approached other homes in the area attempting to gain entry by acting as workers from different associations, including the handicapped association and as sales men.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident. PS Haworth added: "If you have seen the men in the area or know who they are then we would urge you to come forward."

Contact the police on 01282425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with information.