TWO elderly women had cash stolen after they were tricked into letting thieves into their homes.

The victims, aged 80 and 74, were targeted in Smithills and Halliwell yesterday.

Police are warning elderly people not to let anyone in their homes unless they are satisfied they know who they are.

The 80-year-old woman, of Knowsley Road, Smithills, answered the door at 4pm to a man who claimed he worked for the gas board.

After he was allowed inside the house he asked her to turn the water off.

As she went into the kitchen the man searched rooms, stealing a purse containing an amount of cash, before running off.

Police are looking for a white man, aged 25, 5ft 7ins tall, of medium build, with mousey coloured hair, receding slightly on top, with a scruffy and unshaven look.

He was wearing a black leather-look coat with badges on it and blue jeans.

The 74-year-old, of Whitchurch Gardens, Halliwell, let a man into her house at 1pm yesterday when he claimed she had invited him around.

He stole a handbag with £40 inside, a benefit book and purse containing £92.

The caller is white, in his early 20s, with short medium length fair hair, wearing a black tracksuit.

Sgt Jim Winwood, of Astley Bridge police station, warned pensioners to be extra vigilant. Anyone who can help police can call 0161 872 5050, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.