DETECTIVES are hunting two men who tricked their way into the home of an elderly man and stole cash and jewellery.

The men entered the 86-year-old victim’s home in Borrowby, near Thirsk at around 12pm yesterday, pretending to be blinds salesmen.

Once inside one of the men distracted the man in the front room, closing the door behind him, while his accomplice entered a downstairs bedroom.

When the elderly man became suspicious and threatened to call the police, the two men left quickly.

Two rings and a small amount of cash were stolen.

Detective Constable Karl Middlemiss, of Northallerton CID, said: "I am appealing to the public to help us identify the men responsible for this gutless and cowardly crime.

"Targeting the elderly and vulnerable in this manner is totally unacceptable and we are doing everything we can to trace the suspects.

"I would like anyone who was in the area between 11.45am and 12pm on Thursday 12 May, and saw any suspicious behaviour to contact the police or Crimestoppers with information."

Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is urged to contact DC Karl Middlemiss on 0845-6060247 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.