Fraudsters posing as council contractors stole cash from an elderly woman after tricking her into allowing them in to her home. 

Two men knocked on the door of a property in Waterside, Kings Langley, at about 1pm on October 15 and told the resident – a woman in her eighties – they needed to check the water pressure.

The woman let the men in, who then said they required £30 for a new valve. She gave them the money from her purse and they left.

The victim later realised that money had been stolen from her purse.

The first offender is described as a white man, of slim build, aged approximately 40 years old, with mousey brown hair.

He was said to be between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 7ins tall, clean shaven and was wearing a pale grey t-shirt, jeans and black trainers.

The second man is described as white, aged approximately 35 years old, between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 7ins tall, with darker hair and larger build than the first man.

He was said to have some facial hair and wearing the same clothing as his accomplice but with lighter trainers.

Detective Constable Jon Leak said: "The victim clearly thought there was an immediate need to let the men into her property.

“This is the way these criminals operate. They create a sense of urgency and are extremely convincing.

"I would like to appeal to anyone who was approached that day by these two men. Did they call at your door? Did you see them in the area acting suspiciously? Did you see any suspicious vehicles?

"Any information you provide could be vital to our investigation.

"I'd also remind people not to open the door to unexpected callers. If you are not expecting anyone and you don't recognise them, don't let them into your home."

Call police on the 101 enquiry line with any information.