Distraction burglars target 90-year-old

Two men called at the home of the elderly woman in Newbury claiming to be from Sovereign Vale housing

A 90-YEAR-OLD woman was targeted in a suspected distraction burglary in Newbury last week.

Between 5pm and 6.10pm last Wednesday (November 9), two white men who were scruffy in appearance called at the home of the elderly woman in St Mary's Road, claiming to be from Sovereign Vale housing.

One man said he was there to check the heating and the woman let him in, while the other man stood in the doorway with the woman.

The man conducted a tidy search of the property and left after 15 minutes.

Det Con Steve Lynch, of Force CID at Newbury, said the elderly woman was unharmed during the incident, but added: “At this moment in time we cannot confirm what, if anything was stolen, however I am keen to speak to anyone who was in the St Mary's Road area, around the time of the incident, who may have seen two men going door-to-door.

“Perhaps he approached you and was turned away? Perhaps you were another victim and you haven't reported this to the police? If so, we need to hear from you.”

Det Con Lynch also offered a warning to other residents.

He said: “I would always urge people to verify the identity of strangers who call at their homes, by calling the company or organisation they claim to be from and checking with them.

“A legitimate caller will never mind and will be happy to wait while you do this. If someone claims to be from the police, this can be verified by asking for their shoulder number and calling the 101 enquiry line to verify this.

“Never let someone into your home without doing this.”

Thames Valley Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident and anyone with any information should contact Det Con Lynch via the enquiry line number, 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.