THE life savings of an 89-year-old woman were stolen by a conman who posed as a workman for a water company.

He fled with £4,070 from the home in Glynne Street, Farnworth, after tricking his way inside.

After telling the woman that he needed to check the pressure and temperature of her water supply, he went round the house opening taps before leaving.

When he had gone, the woman realised that money was missing from her purse and later found savings missing from a box upstairs.

Police have warned residents to be on their guard after the man struck at about 2pm on Monday afternoon.

Detective Constable Corrine Wooton, of Bolton CID's burglary unit, said: "This particularly callous crime has left a vulnerable, elderly woman extremely distraught.

"It is important for residents to check the ID of all callers and, if in any doubt, refuse to let them in."

The thief is described as a white man, aged in his 30s, with short dark hair.

He was wearing a black suit and green gloves.

Police are also investigating another incident involving a conman, who struck at Oaks Avenue, Bradshaw, at 3.30pm on Monday.

He went to the house of a 54-year-old man who he asked to let him inside, but was told to leave.

The conman is described as having an Irish accent, was about 5ft 4ins tall, with a thin moustache and short dark hair.

He was wearing a grey jumper with blue jeans.

Anybody with information is asked to contact police by calling 0161 856 5792 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.