THREE evil crooks entered the home of an 88-year-old woman and tried to steal her cash with an elaborate con trick.

The pensioner answered the door to a man at her home on Prescot Road last Friday afternoon (August 8). He claimed to be from the council investigating reports that residents had been having problems with water supplies.

As the woman turned on taps in the kitchen, two more men entered. Police say the 'official' apparently challenged the pair and appeared to perform a citizen's arrest.

Unknown to the victim, the man was posing as the official was in league with the other two and he told the elderly woman to go and check her money was safe. Detectives say this was a "ruse to fool her into revealing where she kept money".

But the victim had no money in her home, and the gang became abusive before leaving the house. They made their escape in the direction of Toll Bar.

Police say the victim was unhurt but was left badly shaken by the episode. They are warning townsfolk to be on their guard in case the crooks attempt to strike again and are appealing for witnesses to the incident that happened at about 2pm.

Detective Inspector Mike Murray from St Helens CID said: "This is a particularly callous offence.

"We remind people to be vigilant when dealing with unexpected callers, and if in any doubt double check the caller's identity with the relevant organisation via the Yellow Pages before allowing them into the house. A genuine caller will not mind. If in doubt, keep them out."

All three men are described as being in their mid 20s, about 5ft 8ins tall, with slim builds. They were wearing light short-sleeved t-shirts and trousers.

l Anyone with information can contact DC Sharon Anderton at St Helens CID on 0151 777 6064 or Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555 111.