The warning has been issued by Clitheroe's Sgt Rob Evans after an attempted distraction burglary in Chatburn.

Two offenders turned up at the doorstep of a 76-year-old woman claiming to be officials from the water board. One of the callers pushed past her while the other searched her front room. When challenged by the pensioner, the offender said he was searching for water pipes. The conmen escaped empty-handed shortly after.

The incident occurred at 3-30 p.m. on Tuesday and has left the pensioner shaken.

The first offender is described as white, in his early 50s, wearing a black jacket, black baseball cap and black gloves. He was in his early 50s and spoke with an Irish accent. The second is described as white, with a beard, wearing a small chequered jacket, grey trousers and a black flat cap. He also spoke with an Irish accent.

Sgt Evans is urging elderly residents to check for identification before allowing strangers into the home.