BOGUS council workers tricked their way into an elderly woman's home and made off with a bundle of cash.

The conmen, posing as council officials, told the 76-year-old woman they had to clean up the pipes in her home in Gaskell Street, Chorley due to a release of toxic fluid.

They also said other workmen were carrying out related work in the Brooke Street area.

The unsuspecting resident let the men into her home at around 1.30pm on May 22. One of them wiped the pipes while the other searched the flat and stole almost £140 in cash. The conmen are described as white males. One was between 20 and 30 years of age, of medium build with a short dark jacket.

The other was around 30 years old, of slim build, 6ft tall and was wearing a grey checked sports coat.

Insp Simon Atkinson of Chorley Police warned pensioners to be on their guard. He said: "Older people are often targeted in this way.

"These officials came to the woman's flat with a plausible story. We are concerned that these conmen are still in the area and will try this again. We urge people to check the identity of people claiming to be officials and to always report such incidents."

If you have any information contact Chorley Police on (01257) 269021.

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