POLICE are hunting a man and woman team who posed as social services officers before trying to steal cash from a 78-year-old woman.

And they have warned other elderly people to be on their guard in case the bogus officials are still operating in the area.

Detective Sergeant Ian Critchley, of Darwen, said the offence was particularly despicable, targeting a vulnerable member of the community.

"So far this is the only report we have had but we are not discounting the possibility of these two still being in the area," said DS Critchley. "We would also like to hear from anyone who thinks they may have been approached by this couple who could have posed as any kind of officials, not just social services."

The 78-year-old woman answered the door at her home in Greenway Street to a man and woman both between 30 and 40 years of age.

The woman had blond hair in a ponytail and was wearing a red or maroon jacket. The man had short, dark hair and was wearing a dark jacket and trousers.

After introducing themselves as being from social services the male engaged the lady in conversation.

The female was trying to get cash out of a tin when the lady realised what was going on and the couple fled empty-handed.

Anyone with any information should contact Darwen CID on 353842.