A PENSIONER foiled two thieves who attempted to trick their way into her home.

The 70-year-old answered a knock at the door of her home in Georgian Court, Tyldesley, at 1.40pm on Monday. She was faced by a man who claimed to work for the water board.

He told her to open the door but when she asked for identification, he went to get his accomplice. The second man threatened that they would come back with a court order if she did not let them in. The woman refused and called the police.

Today the pensioner said: "I asked the man for ID and he showed me his mobile phone, but I wasn't having that. He got quite cross then and went to get his friend who said he would come back and get a court order. I know perfectly well that's rubbish. All I was doing was refusing him access because he had no ID.

"I've always been vigilant and I know pretty much who should be calling at the house. I always leave the door locked and if I'm not expecting anyone, I will not let them in.

"I would advise other people not to be intimidated and not to let people in if they are not expecting them. We have been told often enough, although it's difficult because of the way we were brought up, but the world has changed. If they are genuine, they will call back."

Det Insp Chris Wood, of Wigan police, today said: "This lady did exactly the right thing by not letting these men into her home."

Witnesses should contact Wigan police on 0161 856 7275 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"You do not have to let people in if they do not have an appointment and if they are genuine they will call back.

"Criminals who target the elderly and vulnerable are particularly despicable and I need the public's help to catch the men who are responsible for this Crime."