Tricksters target lone 96-year-old

CRUEL conmen tricked their way into a 96-year-old woman’s home by posing as officials from a gas company.

The duped pensioner, who lives on her own, allowed the men into her house to read her meter.

But while one pretended to check the meter, using a hand-held device, the other began to move between other rooms in the house until the woman asked them to leave her property on Medway Road, Hollins.

It is believed they didn’t steal anything.

Police are now urging the community to be on their guard and be more vigilant after the incident last Thursday, between 6.40 and 7.20pm.

PC Andy Swettenham said: “One of the men even went to the lengths of having a gas reader to give himself an appearance of officialdom.

“It is extremely important that members of our community are on their guard and if they are approached by a man fitting this description who asks to either read a gas or electricity meter that they ask for identification.

“A caller from a reputable company will always carry legitimate identification and will be happy to produce it when challenged.”

One of the conmen was described as white, aged about 30, 5ft 6in tall and of a medium build.

He was said to be carrying a gas reader and wearing casual clothing.

Police advise householders to refuse entry to cold callers if they have any suspicions, or if the callers don’t carry correct identification.

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to call police on 0161-856 4553 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.