A burglar got into an old woman's house in Kendal by convincing her he worked for a water company.

The man sat and talked with the woman at her house in Sandylands Road for a few minutes then made his excuses to leave, saying he had to get a spanner.

During their chat it is believed a second man came in and stole £75 from an upstairs bedroom.

The first man is described as in his early 20s with short black hair, wearing a blue jacket with a band on it.

A small white van was seen in the area heading towards Appleby Road.

Mike Head, a police spokesman, said distraction burglaries were common but the water company scam was the most popular at the moment.

He said: "These people are clever and nasty in the way they target the vulnerable and the elderly but traditionally they do not use violence. Very often, if they are challenged they will go."

He warned people to: check the identity of any unexpected caller; use a door chain whenever unknown people came to the door; and do not let anyone in if you have any doubts.

United Utilities spokeswoman Lee Watson said: "We are very concerned to hear about this burglary and extend our sympathies to the customer."

She reminded UU people that all firm employees carried identity cards and customers should not let anyone into their home without a good look at it.

A password scheme is also available for people who want extra reassurance.

Call 0800-056-7693 for information.