A CONMAN is preying on the elderly in Bolton -- stealing from his victims before kissing them on the cheek.

Police are investigating incidents in which the man, posing as an apparently "perfect gentleman", visited two neighbours in Hulton Lane, Deane, and stole a handbag containing £430.

The conman looked around an 84-year-old woman's home at 9am on Tuesday, kissed her on the cheek and left.

He then called at her 89-year-old next door neighbour's home and engaged her in conversation on the doorstep.

The man led her into her living room, kissed her on the cheek and stole her handbag, containing the money.

PC Steve Openshaw, Bolton South Crime reduction adviser, said: "This sort of offence, committed against the most vulnerable members of our society, is despicable.

"I would ask that all residents report suspicious callers to the police."

PC Openshaw has urged the public to be aware of the man, who is in his 20s and wore light coloured clothing.

He has asked residents to use a door chain and door viewer when answering the door and check the identity of all callers.

The police have also stressed the danger of letting strangers into the house and to beware of salespeople calling on chance.

Anyone with information about the conman should call Bolton police on 0161 872 5050, or the free and confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.