POLICE have launched an investigation after two bogus callers entered a pensioner's home in Houston without his permission.

The 76-year-old victim was approached by two men in Berl Avenue between 7.30pm and 8pm on Thursday.

Police said the fraudsters told the elderly man that they were carrying out work on the local water supply.

The two men then walked into the victim's home without permission, before quickly leaving the property when family members arrived at the house.

The first suspect, believed to be in his 50s, is described as white, of medium build and around 5ft 7ins tall with short, dark-coloured hair. At the time, he was wearing a black face mask.

His accomplice, believed to be in his early 30s, is said to be white and of thin build with a very gaunt face and prominent eyes. At the time, he was wearing a black snood and a black beanie hat.

Police said both suspects spoke with a London accent, however it is not known if their accents were genuine.

Inspector Damian Kane, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: "People who target elderly members of the community in their own homes are despicable. It is totally unacceptable to leave people feeling vulnerable in their own home. These two men must be caught.

"It may be that there are other people in the local area who have been approached by these men, who haven’t yet come forward to police. If you have had someone at your door recently that you are unsure of, or if an relative or friend has informed you of an incident, I would like to hear from you.

"These men may not be local to the area, and we are carrying out enquiries to establish more information on them. I would ask people to be vigilant and if they see anyone acting suspiciously, then contact police. 

"Anyone with dashcam footage or private footage in the area of Berl Avenue from Thursday evening is urged to contact us as it may hold information that will help our investigation."

Information can be passed to police via 101, quoting reference number 3402 of May 20. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For crime prevention advice, visit www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/scams-and-frauds/doorstep-crime-and-bogus-callers/.