ELDERLY people are battling back against burglars who try to con their way into pensioners' homes.

An 84-year-old man hit out with his walking stick at two thieves when he realised they were trying to burgle his home in Bookerhill Road, High Wycombe.

He had opened his door to a man who claimed he needed to check the water supply at about 1.30pm on Tuesday.

The pensioner spotted an accomplice nipping in the back door and struck them both with his stick.

Police are warning pensioners to be on guard against the conmen. Spokesman Kate Spark said: "We would advise residents not to let anyone in their home unless they are sure of their intentions.

"Ask any unexpected callers for identification and be sure to check that identification by calling the relevant service or authority or the police before you let the caller in.

"If the caller is genuine they will not mind waiting."

An elderly couple listened to police advice and refused to let a man into their home in Elizabeth Avenue, Little Chalfont, at about 11.15am on Tuesday.

The 81-year-old woman, who went to the door, said: "I was quite frightened but I can be quite a formidable old lady and I said 'I am not letting you in so you may as well go'."

An 85-year-old woman, from Holmer Green, had £100 stolen after a thief rifled round her bedroom last Wednesday, while another pretended to be turning off her water.

She said "They told me someone had been flooded and I let them in. I was stupid but it will never happen again."

If you have information on the incidents call police on (01494) 465888