THE niece of an 83-year-old woman who had £4,000 pinched from her home by a man posing as a policeman has urged elderly people to be on their guard when people call at their homes.

Linda Pye explained that her auntie who lives in Billinge was disturbed by a man at around 8.30pm on Thursday, Oct 19, who claimed to be in the CID.

He said he was investigating reports her back window had been smashed.

Linda continued: "She isn't sure whether there was one man or two, but when he said he was from CID she invited him in. And as soon as she saw that the window had been broken, she immediately trusted him. He told her to make them both a cup of tea, while he took a statement. He asked if she had money in the house and was it safe.

"Without a second thought she went over to her wardrobe where she kept £4,000 in a carrier bag to see if it was still there. While she was making a drink, we think he threw the money out of the window.

"Elderly people need to know, don't open your door to anyone you don't know. We're lucky we are not talking about a death here because the shock of something like this could kill. She comes from a generation that used to keep doors unlocked. Sadly you can't do that any more."

The man is between 45-50, around 6ft and well built. He had dark, cropped hair, which was going grey and a round face. The man was clean-shaven and said to be wearing overalls.