Over-60s are on to doorstep conmen

AFTERNOON tea with a difference was enjoyed by a group of over-60s at the Canon George Community & Parish Hall, St Margaret’s Church, Hollinwood.

In a bid to tackle doorstep crime, the teas have been organised by the church as part of a scheme funded by the Home Office in association with Age Concern and Help The Aged.

While crime figures are down, the elderly are still being targeted by criminals as they are often more trusting members of the community.

During the afternoon tea, useful advice was given to help people avoid becoming victims of doorstep crime.

Mike Fleming, Oldham Council’s doorstep crime prevention champion, gave helpful tips on how to handle callers, while Richard Hughes, from Trading Standards, spoke about dealing with rogue traders. Doorstep scenarios were acted out with short sketches written by Oldham Writing Café and acted by Oldham amateur dramatics star Avis Billington and Tony Wolstonholme.

Sylvia Livesey, who attended the tea, said: “I found it very helpful and far more informative than other things I have been to.”

Each person received a goodie bag with advice leaflets, key ring and other useful crime prevention items to take home with them, and personal attack alarms were also available.

Three more events are planned at the Canon George Hall tomorrow, January 7 and January 12, 2010 (1pm to 4pm). To book call 0161-682 5106.

Age Concern Oldham hosts a roadshow at The Queen Elizabeth Hall, on February 17, 2010, between 11am and 3pm. Call 0161-633 0213 to book.