An elderly couple were confronted by a man who walked into their bedroom, gave them a newspaper, and asked for a drink.

The pensioners were left shocked after the man entered their Cleckheaton home and rifled through their belongings at about 5.30pm on Friday.

The 85-year-old woman, who suffers from osteoporosis and cannot walk, said: "I was in bed not feeling well and my husband was also in the bedroom watching golf. I thought I'd heard a noise, but didn't know it was the door opening. The cat was looking towards the door, then this man was just standing at the foot of the bed.

"He had a newspaper in his hand and said it was for us. I told him we didn't get a newspaper and he said we could have one free today."

Her 89-year-old husband added: "He was mumbling something then said 'I could do with a drink - I take milk and three sugars.' I went in the kitchen and when I made him the drink he'd gone into the lounge then went straight out the door.

"My wallet and razor and my wife's purse and handbag were gone.

"I thought the best thing would be to make him a drink and get him out of the house," he added. "I just wanted to get rid of him. I couldn't have done anything because he was so big."

The burglar is described as white, 6ft tall, mid to late 30s, of heavy build, wearing a black donkey jacket with a day-glo jacket underneath. He was scruffy and spoke with a distinctive accent, possibly Irish. Anyone with information should call Dewsbury police on (01924) 431059.