DETECTIVES are investigating two separate incidents where men posing as electricity board workers conned their way into the homes of pensioners on Friday (Jan 10).

One pair struck at 4.40pm when they called at the home of a 70-year-old woman in Moss Lane, Whitefield. After tricking their way into the house they searched the lounge and fled with a small quantity of cash.

The first offender is described as white, 5ft 4ins, with a round face and dark hair. He was wearing a woollen bobble hat and a black anorak. His accomplice was described as white, tall and wore a grey anorak.

About one hour earlier, two men with dirty faces and wearing duffle coats and bobble hats called at the home of an 84-year-old woman in Hazel Avenue, Bury.

Also claiming to be from the electricity board, the men entered the house and searched the living room before the woman became suspicious and asked them to leave. The men left empty handed.

Police investigating both incidents would like to hear from residents in either area to help identify the offenders.

Any information about the Moss Lane incident can be given to detectives at Whitefield CID on 0161 856 8248 while Bury CID can be contacted on 0161 856 8150 by witnesses to the Hazel Avenue crime.

Alternatively, information about either case can be given to detectives at Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.