Thieves are foiled by security team

A DISABLED burglary victim has prevented another break-in at his Shaw home after getting help from Oldham Community Safety team.

The 79-year-old grandfather, who has cancer and walks with two sticks, lives in sheltered accommodation.

Two weeks ago thieves broke in and stole £129, his house keys and two mobile phones.

And they tried to get in again early on Friday by using his keys — but they were foiled because the community safety team had fitted free security locks, lights and new front and back door locks.

Now, the pensioner has urged other people to take up the free help if they fall victim to burglars.

He said: “I would not hesitate to say use them, they would be absolutely barmy if they don’t accept the new locks and lights.

“They were all fitted in a day, including a 500 watt security light.

“After the first break-in obviously I was worried, and then early on Friday morning I went to the bathroom and I heard someone trying the key in the back door. I heard the keys rattle, but knew they couldn’t get in.

“Twenty minutes later they came round to the front. I called the police. I feel safer now I have these new locks and my new mobile.”

Martin O’Connell, the community safety co-ordinator, said: “If someone is a victim of burglary we will contact them, by letter or telephone, and offer to come round with our security service and assist them with everything. For burglary victims it is free.

“Someone who is a victim is more likely to be a repeat victim four times within six months.

“So we are likely to have prevented four more burglaries.”

Councillor Rod Blyth, Cabinet member for People and Communities, added: “This shows that this is an excellent service.

“We have a poor take up of this service, and people should be taking advantage of it.”