A BOLTON pensioner was subjected to a terrifying assault after a gang posing as police officers pinned her down on her bed and ransacked her house.

The thieves forced their way inside the home of the 69-year-old woman in Hawkshead Drive, Deane, and placed a hand over her mouth while ripping jewellery off her.

Police have now warned pensioners to be vigilant after a spate of six identical burglaries in the Deane area.

Bolton police said the gang was dangerous and the elderly should remain on their guard.

Det Insp Sarah Wallwork said: "These crimes are sickening and I am appealing to anyone who knows who these people are to contact us. This woman was terrified and has been left feeling vulnerable and angry that this happened in her own home."

Detectives are also investigating a series of burglaries at homes in Wigan Road, Hawthorn Road, Hemsby Close, Deane Church Lane and Cleveland Gardens.

It is believed there could be up to four people in the gang, including one woman.

Police are convinced the incidents are linked. They say a mobile phone card is often flashed before homeowners after members of the gang have knocked on their doors.

On Monday, at 10.10pm, a man and a woman, both posing as police officers, knocked on the door of the 69-year-old woman in Hawkshead Drive saying they were investigating burglaries in the area.

When the woman became suspicious, they held her down and pulled every item of jewellery, including rings and necklaces, from her.

The pair then fled, taking the woman's landline phone with them to stop her from raising the alarm.

The woman was to upset to talk about the attack, but a neighbour said: "It's a frightening time for people around here.

"There's been a spate in these burglaries and the only reason people are opening their door is because they see a woman at the door. They are very calculated."

Det Insp Wallwork said: "Those who carry out such crimes are extremely manipulative and believable especially when dealing with the elderly.

"People should not be ashamed of reporting such matters to the police and anyone who has suffered a similar experience should contact us immediately."

The woman attacker is aged between 40 and 45. The male attacker is between 18 and 25 years old. Both were wearing dark- coloured waterproof jackets.

Anyone with information should call Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 080 555 111.