A PLUCKY pensioner chased after two doorstep conmen who posed as “water board” employees.

The two men, who claimed to be in the area to fix a problem with the water pressure, tricked their way into the home of an 86-year-old widower near to Horwich town centre.

While inside the house, they grabbed man’s arm and made off with his wallet and £20.

The victim’s daughter, Kathyrn Wood, said the man who knocked at the door about 1-30pm on Monday, February 18 appeared to be genuine.

She said her father did not want his name or address revealing, and added: “One man called at the door and said there was a problem with the water pressure in the area.

“Dad says he was very polite and chatty went in the kitchen with him.

“He turned on taps and was looking under the sink. Dad then noticed another man.

“Dad went for his wallet which he always keeps in his back pocket. One of them grabbed his arm and took the wallet. They both then ran away.

The second man had rummaged through the bedrooms and had looked under pillows and bedding.

“Dad did try to chase them then realised he was no match for them even if he could keep up.”

She said her father is very independent and was unharmed, but left shaken and annoyed that his wallet had been taken.

It is not the first time the pensioner has been targeted. Last year he woke up to find a female intruder in his bedroom. She was caught by police and found to have stolen a torch.

PCSO Steve Best, of Bolton West Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “If people knock on your door saying they are from the water board don’t let them in, the water board does not exist anymore.

“Our advice is not to let anyone in unless they have made an appointment.

“Genuine traders will not be offended.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111.