AN elderly woman was robbed of £2,000 after a bogus caller tricked his way into her home, police said yesterday.

The 65-year-old was at home in Darlington when the man, who claimed to be a water board official, called on Thursday.

The man told the woman that he needed access to the house. Once inside, he stole a substantial amount of cash, leaving his victim distraught. She was not hurt during the incident.

The man is described as white and aged between 35 and 40, with ginger hair. He was wearing a white shirt and beige trousers, and spoke with an Irish accent.

The theft has prompted police to reiterate warnings about the dangers of bogus house callers.

A police spokesman said: "If a resident does not know the caller they should ask for identification and if they are in any doubt they should call the police."

Anyone who has any information about the incident is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.