A PENSIONER has been left badly shaken after being robbed by a bogus worker in her home in Renfrew.

Police are appealing for information after the 86-year-old woman was targeted in Glebe Street yesterday at around 12pm. 

The woman had been working in her garden when she was approached by a man who claimed to be from the water board.

READ MORE: Pensioner left badly shaken after being robbed in her Elderslie home

The victim asked to see ID but was eventually persuaded by the suspect to let him into the house so he could inspect the taps. 

Once inside, he convinced the pensioner to allow him to look around and he ransacked a cabinet and made off with around £30. 

Police say the man targeted the pensioner and it is believed he had spent time in the area before the robbery. 

Inspector Jim Cast, based in Johnstone, condemned the incident and told The Gazette police were upping patrols in the area. 

He said: "This was quite an alarming incident and a terrible crime which targeted a vulnerable member of society.

"The man seems to have been able to convince the victim that he was genuine and she has been left shaken by the incident.

The Gazette: Inspector Jim Cast Inspector Jim Cast

"We want to remind people to always check for ID and if they have any doubts to phone the company or the police.

"You should never allow anyone into your home if you do not trust them."

The suspect is described as a white man in his fifties, around 5ft 8" and of medium build. He had short grey hair and was wearing dark coloured bottoms and a dark jacket. 

READ MORE: Extra patrols in Johnstone after spate of break-ins

He is also said to have been wearing a baseball cap and carrying an A4 sized piece of paper. 

Inspector Cast added: "We want to remind people to look after your neighbours and to report anything suspicious."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101. 

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond