POLICE are hunting a Christmas Day conman who escaped with £1,000 from an elderly couple in Accrington.
Detectives investigating the theft also revealed how it was the second time the two 88-year-old pensioners have been targeted by bogus callers in two months.
The couple were first targeted in October when the television aerial cable was cut and property stolen after a man conned his way into the house on the pretext of fixing the television..
In the latest con, a masked raider again tampered with the television aerial at the couple's Swiss Street home before returning shortly after and offering to fix it.
Once inside he stole a handbag containing the cash and pension books.
DC Mark Winstanley, of Accrington CID, said it was a "heartless" offence.
He said: "The couple are both aged 88 and it appears to be the second time they have been specifically targeted."
The thief was wearing black clothing including gloves and a balaclava covering everything except his nose and eyes.
Anyone who has any information should contact Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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