POLICE are warning householders to be on their guard, after a man posing as a water board official tricked his way into the home of a 96-year-old woman.

The man called at her home, in Sowerby, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire, on Monday afternoon.

He claimed he did not need an identity card as he was an outside worker.

The lady allowed him access to her home, in Front Street, where he pretended to check the sink area.

While out of sight, he entered her bedroom and stole an amount of cash from a handbag before leaving.

The man is described as white, aged in his 30s, about 5ft 4in, of stocky build with short dark hair.

He was wearing a navy blue boiler suit.

PC Richard Hampson, of Thirsk Police, said: "This is a despicable crime, targeting a vulnerable, elderly lady in her own home.

"Our advice to residents is do not let anyone into your home unless you are sure that you know who they are, or you are expecting them.

"If you are unsure, contact the organisation they claim to represent.

"Ask them to post a business card or organisation telephone number through the letterbox and ask them to wait outside while you check.

"A genuine caller will be happy to wait.

"We also appeal to relatives, friends and neighbours of elderly people, to ensure they have adequate security and discuss advice on how to deal with cold-callers.

"Reassure them that keeping someone waiting at the door is not impolite.

"A door chain is a useful way to prevent access to someone you are unsure of. Make them aware that all callers must carry identification and if they have any doubts, do not let them in."

Witnesses are asked to call police on 0845-60-60-24-7 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.