TWO 91-year-old men have fallen victim to people who have entered their homes and stolen money.

The incidents happened within hours of each other in Burnley and Padiham, but there is nothing to link them at this time. The mean thefts have led to police issuing a warning to people and especially the elderly and vulnerable not to allow people into their homes without proof of identity.

One of the pensioners answered a knock on the front door of his home in Ighten Road, Burnley, at 3.20pm on Friday and was asked if he wanted any gardening work doing. He invited the woman in, but then she was followed by a man. The old man challenged him but was then talked into making them a cup of tea.

Det Sgt Steve Mounsey said: "One of them then started to wander around the house. The old man was suspicious and talked them into leaving. But stolen was his wallet containing £200 cash."

The woman is described as white, mid-20s, about 5ft 3ins tall, medium build with dark hair brushed back. She was wearing dark clothing, including an anorak.

The man was also white, in his 30s, 5ft 9ins tall, medium build with dark hair. He was also wearing an anorak.

The other offence happened three hours earlier in Giles Street, Padiham, when two people entered claiming they were from the social services. They stole a purse containing £100 and keys from the side of an armchair in the lounge and £700 in cash from upstairs.

No description is available of those involved.

Det Sgt Mounsey said: "These are mean offences against the elderly and vulnerable."