POLICE investigating a quick-fingered conman who preys on old folk have urged residents with elderly neighbours to help.

Inspector Stuart Coates, of Darwen Police, appealed for information about the man after two more addresses in Darwen were targeted yesterday.

He said: "I would ask anyone who sees anyone suspicious to ask them what they are doing and what they want."

The man called at two homes in Ellison Fold Terrace offering to clean watches or jewellery but left empty-handed because the elderly residents were on their guard.

However, he escaped with valuables from a house in Thirlmere Drive last week after using the same scam.

Richard Horton, of Darwen CID, said: "The man offers to clean watches or jewellery and then using sleight of hand swaps valuables for cheap or knock-off goods."

The man is white but with a dark, possibly Mediterranean complexion, between 30 and 40-years-old and about 6ft tall with dark, untidy hair. He was wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information should contact Darwen Police on 01254 701777 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

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