AN 86-year-old man fell victim to a classic doorstep con trick.

Two men called at his home on Eldon Road in Marsh shortly before 12.30pm yesterday.

They claimed to be from the water board and asked him to turn the water on to see if it was contaminated.

He allowed them inside and they then asked if he had change for a £10 note.

He went to his wallet to see if he could help and one of the thieves slipped into his bedroom.

The thieves then asked him to pay them for checking his water.

The man became suspicious and asked them to leave.

They drove away in a white Ford Transit van. The victim later discovered that cash had been taken from the house.

Both thieves are white, in their late 40s and around 5ft 8in tall. One wore a dark anorak and the other a light-coloured shirt .

Anyone with information should ring Pc Peter Warwick on 0845 6060606.