Conman strikes twice

A CONMAN tricked his way into the homes of two Oldham women in an attempt to rob them.

The offender called at a house in Plumpton Close, Royton and told the 61-year-old occupant he was doing market research.

Once inside he grabbed the woman’s handbag and began rummaging through it - but ran off when she pulled an alarm cord.

Around an hour later a man called at a house in Brook Street, Chadderton, and told the 74-year-old occupant he was there on a “health and safety audit”.

When she said she check his claim with a phone call he barged past her and snatched her mobile phone, threatening to “slice” her if she didn’t hand over cash.

A neighbour came to investigate and managed to grab the phone before he ran off.

In both cases the man is described as Asian, in his mid to late 20s, about 5ft 11in, of muscular build with short dark hair, possibly with a side parting.

On both occasions he showed an ID, on a lanyard around his neck.

If you have information call police on 0161-856 8825, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.