POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man pushed his way into the home of an elderly woman.

The victim answered the door to the man after he knocked on her window in the Newlyn Crescent area of Puriton between 8:30pm and 9pm.

He asked for directions to Woolavington before asking to use her phone, but when she refused he pushed his way into the house.

Nothing was taken and the victim was not harmed - just left shaken and frightened by the incident, which happened on Tuesday, January 19.

The offender is a white man, in his late teens to early 20s, about 5ft 10in and he has a moustache.

He was wearing dark clothing, a dark hoody, gloves and carrying a backpack.

Avon and Somerset Police are carrying out house-to-house enquiries and have increased their patrols in the area since the burglary.

"Anyone with information that could help police with their enquiries is asked to call 101 quoting crime reference number 5221013320," said an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson.

"If you have vulnerable elderly relatives or friends please talk to them about how to protect themselves from this sort of crime.

"Doorstep crime prevention tips include:

• Never open the door to an unexpected caller until you’ve checked their identification – use a door chain or viewer, intercom or a ‘smart’ doorbell. Genuine callers expect it.

• If you’re not sure, don’t open the door.

• If you are suspicious of a caller tell us straight away – ring 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated, otherwise call 101.

• Keep your cash in the bank, not at home.

• Keep windows and doors secured if you’re not in the room.

• If you see someone calling door-to-door, but only on frail or elderly neighbours, call 999 straight away.

• Join Neighbourhood Watch."