Bogus workmen steal purse after tricking elderly woman

A PAIR of bogus workmen tricked their way into an elderly woman's home and stole her purse after pretending to be council workmen checking pipework.

The two men called at the 68-year-old victim's home in Auchenhard Terrace, Stoneyburn at around 3pm on Thursday and claimed to be from West Lothian Council.

After being allowed inside, one of the men entered the living room while the other remained outside.

A short time after the men left, the woman noticed her purse was missing.

The first suspect is described as white, in his 20s with short dark hair and wearing a light blue shirt and jeans. The second suspect is described only as having red hair.

A police spokesman said: "Anyone who was in the Auchenhard area around 3pm on Thursday and witnessed anything suspicious, or who can assist with our enquiries is asked to contact police."