A JOHNSTONE woman suffered a terrifying ordeal yesterday when she was tied up and robbed in her own home.

The 46-year-old victim was targeted by a man and a woman in Auchengreoch Avenue at around 2.15pm.

Police said the smartly-dressed crooks were carrying clipboards to make it look like they were carrying out official enquiries.

The callous duo managed to talk the woman into letting them into her house but, once inside, they tied her up and stole a four-figure sum of cash.

They then fled the scene, running off in the direction of Beith Road.

The victim did not need medical treatment but has been left badly shaken by her ordeal.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff said: “This man and woman have gained entry to a woman’s home – a place where she should feel safe.

"She has then been tied up and robbed. Their actions are despicable and it’s imperative we trace those responsible.

"I would appeal to local residents to think back to yesterday – did you notice this man and woman?

"Both were smartly dressed and carrying clipboards to appear as if carrying out official enquiries.

"They were last seen heading towards Beith Road and we are keen to hear from anyone who saw them or saw any suspicious vehicles parked or moving in the area around 2.15pm.

"If you have any information, then please do contact us, as your information could prove vital in our investigation leading to the man and woman being identified.”

Police have said the man who carried out the robbery is white, between 40 and 55 years of age, around 5ft 8ins tall, with a heavy build and going bald.

He was wearing a blue shirt, black trousers and glasses. He also had an identity badge and was carrying a black clipboard and black rucksack.

His female accomplice is also white, in her late 20s or early 30s, around 5ft 9ins tall, slim and with black hair which was tied up.

She was wearing a cream or white top, a black jacket and black trousers and was also carrying a clipboard and a rucksack.

Officers have been carrying out door-to-door enquiries and a forensics team has been taking samples from the location.

Footage from CCTV cameras in the area is also being collected in the hope it can provide vital evidence.

Additional patrols are taking place to provide reassurance for local residents.

Anyone who has concerns is welcome to approach these officers and discuss the matter with them.

If you have information which can help CID officers with their investigation, call 101, quoting incident number 1992 of February 27.

Alternatively, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously.