A conman stole a pensioner's life savings after posing as a plumber.

Before 81-year-old Hilda Wilson realised the man was a fraud, he had stolen more than £800 cash and a savings book she was keeping for her granddaughter.

The thief told Mrs Wilson he was from the water board and was checking the water pressure in houses because of a problem in the street.

Once in her house he asked her to check if the taps in the bathroom worked, but after a few minutes she realised he had left her house.

The bogus official was in Merring Close, Stockton, at about 6pm on Wednesday.

She described the conman as white, in his thirties, about 5ft 8in tall, stocky to overweight build and a pale complexion. He was wearing a dark, plain cap and had short, stubbly facial hair.

He also wore a three-quarter length navy blue jacket and similar coloured trousers.

He spoke with a northern accent and may have been accompanied by another man in his late teens who had earlier called at the house asking for someone called Darren.

The pensioner had sent him away.

Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to contact Stockton police on (01642) 675678.