BOGUS callers who conned a vulnerable pensioner out of £200 and stole a further £700 are being hunted by police.

The offenders knocked on the door of an elderly man in Lumley Terrace, Sunderland, on the morning of April 29, and told him that he needed repairs to his roof.

The victim paid £200 in cash.

One of the offenders then gained access to the pensioner’s home after asking for a drink of water, and as he distracted the victim, another man searched the address and stole a further £700.

Both men then left the address shortly after and left the area in a white transit-type van.

An investigation has been launched into the incident, and police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area to get in touch.

Detective Constable Dave King, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a cynical crime which saw two men target a vulnerable member of our community.

"This is particularly disappointing at a time when the majority of people are really pulling together to look after those most in need.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries in a bid to locate those responsible, but are now asking for the public’s help."

The first male is described as white, about 6ft of medium build in his 50s with dark unshaven stubble. He was believed to have been wearing a long coat with the hood up on the day in question.

The second male is described as white, 5ft 7ins of large build, in his 50s wearing a face mask up to his eyes and a beanie hat.

DC King added: "If you saw something or believe you may have information about the men described, please give us a call.

“I would also like to make sure residents across Sunderland are aware of this type of criminality.

"Offenders often target the most vulnerable in our communities, especially those living alone, so I would ask the public to be wary if a suspicious person knocks on the door and asks to come inside.

“Please make sure you and any loved ones are aware of this, do not let anyone into your home and be careful when keeping large sums of money in the house.

"Anybody with concerns is encouraged to contact us at the earliest opportunity.”

Anyone with information that can assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 379 290420 or contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website.

Alternatively, email 2409@northumbria.pnn.police.uk