AN elderly woman who is nearly blind was tricked by a bogus official who stole a four-figure sum.

The 85-year-old, who is blind in one eye, partially sighted in the other, and is hard of hearing, answered her door in Snaith Terrace, Wingate, County Durham, at 11.15am on Monday to a man claiming to be from "the corporation".

He asked to check her water pressure, so she let him in, then he asked her to turn the kitchen taps on and off.

While in the house, he searched various parts of it, and tok a four-figure sum in cash before making his excuses and leaving.

There have been no reports of a vehicle, and it is not thought that any other homes were targeted.

Detective Constable Brian Roberts, of Peterlee police, said: "Because of her visual difficulties, the lady can only describe the man's voice as being not local. The fact that he was referring to the corporation also suggests that he is not from this area."

Witnesses are asked to ring the police on 0191-586 2621.