TWO thieves who claimed they were water board officials shoved their way into the home of an 80-year-old man in Darwen.

The pair stopped the victim as he was going into his home in Sudell Road at about 9pm on Monday and claimed there was a leak in his back garden but they would fix it.

The pensioner was suspicious and turned down their offer.

But they forced their way in and stole £35 in cash, a Halifax bank card and a bus pass.

DC Mark Hogan of Darwen CID said: "The man declined their help but they pushed past him through the door.

"While one kept him distracted in the kitchen, the other went and did a search through the house upstairs.

"This is a particularly callous offence given the vulnerable nature of a man of his age."

Both robbers were white, aged between 30 and 40 and 5ft 7in tall.

One was of medium build and wore a long- sleeved jumper while the other was stocky and wore a dark leather jacket.

Anyone with information should telephone Darwen police on 01254 353830 or Crimestoppers.