Police Issue Bogus Workman Warning

Date published: 19 November 2008

Police in Bury are advising people to be on their guard after a bogus workman stole £170 from an elderly resident.

The theft was one of four similar incidents which occurred across the Bury district on Monday, November 17 where a workman knocked on the door of a house and either offered his services as a handyman or tried to claim money for repairs he had not carried out.

The attempted thefts took place in Bury and Radcliffe and the man who carried out the successful theft is described as white, in his 30s, of medium build and was wearing waterproof clothing.

Gaynor Mason, Crime Reduction Advisor for Bury police said: “The message we want to give out to elderly residents is that unfortunately there are people out there who purport to be genuine but unfortunately they are not. Our advice is do not answer the door to anyone you do not know or who has not booked an appointment.

“Keep all doors locked and before opening the door to a caller, put the chain on and ask for identification, take the identification off them, close the door and check they are who you are expecting before allowing them into your home.

“Remember STOP LOCK CHAIN & CHECK. If you don’t have a chain on your door the police may be able to help you get one fitted. Contact us on 0161 856 8046.”

If anyone knows the identity of the offender or has any information, they should contact Bury CID on 0161 856 8248 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.