A 98-YEAR-OLD disabled woman has been burgled by a man and a woman claiming to be from the water board.

The incident is the second distraction burglary on an elderly person in the Hyndburn area in a week, although police do not believe the two are connected.

In the latest incident, a man and a woman, in their late 20s or early 30s, called at the pensioner's home in Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, at 3.30pm on Saturday.

They told her they were from the water board and they there had been a burst water main in the area.

The couple talked their way into the house saying that they needed to check the pipes and taps and while they were inside stole purses and cash.

The man had short, straight, dark hair, was clean shaven and wearing dark clothing. His accomplice was shorter but of larger build, with light, shoulder-length hair, and was wearing light-coloured clothing.

Det Sgt Ian Geogarty, of Accrington CID, said: "Anyone who targets vulnerable people in such a way deserves no protection from anyone and I would urge anyone with information to contact the police immediately."

Last Tuesday, a 92-year-old man had cash stolen from his Altham home by three men claiming to be from a gas supply firm.

Police have urged people to check the identification of anyone calling at their home.

This call has been supported by Patrick Collister, the chief officer of Age Concern Hyndburn.

He said: "Only let callers in when you are absolutely sure they are genuine and always remember, if in doubt, keep them out!"

Anyone with information about the burglaries is asked to call Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.