Conman tricks elderly Earby woman out of £4,000 (From Craven Herald)

Conman tricks elderly Earby woman out of £4,000

10:12am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Local news

Detectives have launched a manhunt after an elderly woman was tricked out of £4,000 by a doorstep conman in Earby.

Police say the thief posed as a trader, claiming to have done work on a house belonging to a woman in her 80s in the Cowgill Street area.

He demanded £480 from the pensioner, saying he had carried out work on her chimney and she needed to check her fire.

Police say the man wrote his details on a piece of scrap paper and demanded the bill be paid in cash. The victim then went upstairs to get some money but was followed by the man. As the victim started to count the cash, the bogus workman grabbed all the notes and fled the scene.

The incident took place on Saturday, January 28, between 3.30pm and 3.50pm.

DC Martin Legdon said: “This is an appalling crime where a vulnerable lady has been conned out of a large sum of money.

“Understandably, she has been left upset and angry following her ordeal. This person must be caught and I would appeal to the public for information in helping track this heartless thief down.

“If anyone saw a man acting suspicious in the area between 3pm and 4pm then I would ask them to get in touch and contact the police.”

And he added: “I would urge people to make sure they take the necessary crime prevention steps to avoid incidents happening. Never invite anyone who you do not know into your home unless they have valid identification. Don’t leave tradespeople alone in your house and keep doors locked and valuables secure.”

Potential witnesses are being asked to call Pendle CID on 01282 472144, the new non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.