Pensioners stolen bank card used in Oldham

The saloon car, possibly a black Rover 75 used by the two men

The bank card of elderly couple from Colne, who were targeted in a distraction burglary, was used later at Asda on Hollins Road in Oldham.

The 88-year-old woman was followed from Colne town centre by two men in a large dark saloon car, possibly a black Rover 75, to her address on Keighley Road in Colne.

One of the men got into her house and claimed he was lost. He laid out a map over the woman’s purse and her 88-year-old husband’s wallet, asking her for some directions to a nearby public house.

After he left, they realised the purse and wallet which contained £100 and cards had been stolen.

PC Matt Walton from Colne Police said: “This was an appalling crime against two elderly people in a place they should have been safe, their own home.

“The pair responsible were cunning, targeting the woman knowing that she was a pensioner and had the audacity to not only follow her but go into her house.

“We need anyone who might recognise the people or the vehicle pictured to get in touch. Similarly if you have any information that you could think could help, please come forward.”

The two offenders are Asian, one of slim build and the other of medium build. One was dressed in dark clothing.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Matt Walton at Colne Police on 01282 472484 or if they fail to get an answer, 101, quoting crime reference EG1706912.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org