AN 88-YEAR-OLD woman has become the latest victim to be targeted by bogus officials.

Two men called at the pensioner's home in Park View, Kearsley supposedly to check the plumbing.

But while the younger man kept the victim talking, the older man went upstairs and searched the bedroom. He stole a small amount of cash.

The younger man then told the pensioner his colleague had cut his finger and while she looked for a plaster, he stole cash and a handbag from the living room.

Both men left the house and were seen heading towards the Farnworth area.

The incident happened last Thursday at about 12.30pm.

A police spokesman said: "These men targeted a vulnerable lady who has been left very shaken by what happened.

"I cannot emphasise enough the importance of asking for identification from people who call at your house.

"If you are concerned for your safety, any company wanting to call at your home can organise a password scheme."

The first man is described as white, 5ft 4in, aged about 22, slim build and was wearing a dark hat, dark anorak and dark trousers.

His accomplice is described as white, 5ft 2in, aged about 18, slim build and was dressed in a dark hooded jacket and had a plaster on a finger on his left hand.

Last week, a bogus water board official conned his way into the home of an 85-year-old woman in Deane and stole cash.

Police have joined forces with post offices in Astley Bridge in a bid to beat Christmas conmen.

Elderly residents will receive crime prevention leaflets with their weekly pension as part of the scheme.