Leicestershire Police said the "cold-hearted" con artists struck at the pensioner's Wigston home at 1600 BST.

The elderly victim had opened the door to a man claiming to be from the electricity board, and then a second man followed him in.

But after the pair left, the victim discovered her purse, with a small quantity of cash, was missing.

Det Sgt Neil Holden, from Wigston police station, said: "The perpetrators of this crime are cold-hearted, preying on the most vulnerable.

"The victim has been extremely distressed and upset by the incident.

"I would urge anyone who had any similar callers to their property in the Wigston area to get in touch. Similarly I would urge anyone who saw anyone suspicious in the area to contact me."