AN elderly woman was conned by a man posing as a water board official in Great Sankey.

Police are investigating the distraction burglary at 2pm, on August 12, when the man arrived at the house on St Mary's Road.

The pensioner was alone at the address when the conman entered the house and stole money from her purse. It is believed a second thief may have been involved, although he was not seen.

The conman was white, about 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, with short, cropped brown hair and with a pale unshaven complexion. He spoke with a local accent.

Police are urging people who live alone to ask for identification when dealing with people claiming to be from a utility company. Reputable officials should be able to provide this information, through the letterbox if required.

The advice is, if you are uncertain about a person's identification, do not let them into your house. Ask for a phone number to contact the company and check the validity of the caller.

Anyone with information about the incident in Sankey should contact PC Carr at Warrington Police Station on 01244-350000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.