A SNEAK-IN burglar conned an elderly York woman out of almost £600 by pretending to be a plain clothes police officer.

The man, who claimed to be from the CID, swindled the 79-year-old woman, of Lindsey Avenue, Acomb, out of between £500 and £600.

He called at the woman's house and asked her if she had got any cash, saying that he needed to look at the serial numbers on the notes.

She fetched the cash from bedroom but as she went to make a cup of tea for the man, he fled from the house.

A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Police said: "This man was very convincing, cool under pressure and preyed on an elderly woman.

"We would encourage people to be aware of this incident and not to let anyone into their homes who they find suspicious.

"A genuine police officer will always show his warrant card, but if you are not convinced you can call the police headquarters on 0845 6060247 to check."

James Player, Age Concern York's deputy chief officer, said: "The important thing is not to have anything to do with people who are calling at your door who you're not expecting.

"Even if you are expecting someone you must still check they are legitimate by calling the organisation they say they are from.

"Elderly people should keep a list of useful numbers - such as the gas, electric and water companies - by their telephone so they can quickly check on anyone that does call.

"Older people should be alert as they can be and if they feel at all uncomfortable, should not entertain people they don't know."

Age Concern is offering elderly residents free home security checks and will fit peep holes in doors, as well as door chains and window locks.

Mr Player said: "Our advice is for people to have slides or peep holes fitted which have a wide angled lens so they can see who is outside, or at least a chain, so they can open the door in safety."

Updated: 09:28 Saturday, December 03, 2005