A YORK woman had her purse stolen after she was tricked into letting a young woman into her house.

The woman, who lives in North Moor Gardens, Huntington, heard a dog howling and, when she opened her door, saw the dog and a woman, aged about 22, who asked if she could shelter from the wet weather.

The woman initially declined, but then relented and allowed the young woman inside. She asked for a glass of water and, while the woman was away from the living room, said: "I've got to go to the dog".

When the woman returned she found her purse was missing. The incident happened at about 3.15pm on Monday.

Anyone with information should phone York Police on 01904 631321.

Updated: 08:53 Wednesday, July 23, 2003