THIEVES who tricked their way into an elderly woman's home and stole cash may have preyed on other people nearby, police believe.

The woman answered her door in Bowman Street, Darlington, to a man who claimed he was fitting a kitchen in a neighbour's home and needed to check the water supply.

When she let him in, he was accompanied by another man. They went through to the kitchen where they tried the taps and made various other efforts to look like they were testing the water.

However, after they left, the woman discovered money had been stolen from her purse.

The men called at the house at 12.55pm on Thursday, and Detective Sergeant Peter Hutchinson, of Darlington police, said: "We know of one other house they have called at where they did not get in."

Det Sgt Hutchinson appealed for anyone who believes they have received a visit from the thieves to contact police as soon as possible.

One of the men was described as white, 5ft 7in, fat, with a dirty face and wearing a woollen hat and a dark grey top. His accomplice was white, skinny, and wore a red and white striped polo shirt.

Anyone with information about the incident, or who received a similar call, can contact Darlington police on (01325) 742108 or 742155, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.