TWO conmen tricked their way into an elderly woman's home but failed to get anything valuable.

The attempted distraction burglary took place in Littlemore, Oxford, on Wednesday, police said today.

The pair called at a house in The Grates claiming to be from the local water company at about 2pm.

An 83-year-old woman let the men into the property and while she showed one of them the taps in the kitchen and the bathroom she discovered the other attempting to gain entry to a bureau.

At this point they both walked out. Nothing appeared to have been stolen.

The man discovered in the living room was about 45, short and stocky, mostly bald with pale skin.

His accomplice was about 30, very tall, and with black, medium-length hair. He was wearing a striped jumper with prominent red stripes.

Dc Jim Holmes, of Thames Valley Police, said: "We believe these men may have been travelling around on foot, which would have been unusual on Wednesday given that the weather was so bad.

"These callous thieves have targeted a vulnerable woman, once again using the tactic of claiming to be from the local water company.

"It's vital residents are suspicious of anyone claiming to be from a utility company and cold-calling. Local water company workers only ever attend with an appointment.

"Relatives, friends and carers of the elderly must make sure they are aware of this message - it could make the difference."

Anyone with any information about the incident should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.