Home alone dad, 87, conned

Stephen Bridgehouse by the drive never finished by a bogus workman who got away with £650

Bogus builder steals £650 from pensioner

TRADING Standards officers have issued a stark warning after bogus builders deceived a pensioner and stole £650.

The 87-year-old was keeping an eye on workmen who had agreed to re-lay and extend a driveway at his son’s home, while he was at work.

Stephen Bridgehouse, of Brantwood Close, Royton, had hired the workers after a man — posing as a builder — knocked on his door saying he could do the work for £350.

The man claimed he was working down the road and had noticed Mr Bridgehouse’s driveway was uneven.

When the workmen returned to find Stephen’s dad home alone, they demanded he hand over £650 cash up front.

The pensioner, believing that was the pre-agreed price, got in his car to collect the money — but the builder jumped into the passenger seat.

He escorted Mr Bridgehouse into his house, watching over his shoulder as he counted out the cash.

On the way back, the builder said he just had to pop into a shop to get some tea for one of Stephen’s neighbours, but he fled with the money.

Oldham CID is currently investigating the incident, which happened at 1.30pm on February 23.

Mr Bridgehouse said: “My dad’s lost all his confidence and he’s scared to be at home now.

“He’s upset because he’s been fleeced. I can’t believe how people take advantage of the elderly like this.

“There are so many conmen about.

“I would just advise family members to always know what’s going on with their elder relatives. This wouldn’t have happened if I’d have been there.”

A spokesman from Oldham Council’s trading standards department advised residents to always get a written quote and contract to cover any building work — including the price, payment arrangements and start/finish dates.

He said: “Be suspicious if you are suddenly being charged for extra expenses and don’t ever pay the whole amount up front.

“There is a great risk that the trader, as unfortunately in this case, could disappear with your money.”

Oldham CID said genuine callers would not cause distress and would be happy to return later when you have a friend or family member there with you.

The main offender is described as being in his mid to late 20s, around 5ft 6, with short blonde hair, fresh-faced and of a medium build.

The first time he was seen he drove a white, flat back vehicle and on his return drove a new silver/grey flat back van.

Anyone who has any information or witnessed the men can contact Oldham CID on 0161-856 8951 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.