ELDERLY householders were urged to beware of doorstep conmen after a three-man gang escaped with a large amount of cash from a pensioner's home.

They struck at the home of a 79-year-old man in Seaham, east Durham, on Saturday.

Posing as water board officials warning of flood risks, two of them managed to get into the house, in Stockton Road. They kept the pensioner talking, telling him to switch off his water supply, while a third sneaked in and took the money.

Police warned the elderly to beware of these tactics, and stressed they should always ask callers for proof of identity.

A spokesman at Seaham police office said: "We would urge all elderly people to be wary of callers.

"These men struck at around 7.45pm and obviously appeared genuine. I would just ask older people to be extra vigilant with callers like this."

Their victim, who lives alone, was said to be shaken on realising his loss.

One of the gang was said to be in his 40s, another in his 20s and the third was believed to be in his teens.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Seaham police office, on 0191-581 2255.