Fourth victim conned by "school collector" in Thatcham

At 4pm on Monday, January 7, a boy talked himself into the Bollingbroke Way home of an 83-year-old woman by stating he was collecting from Trinity School and was raising money for the RSPCA.
The victim gave the offender £1 and he said he wanted to lean on something to fill out his sponsorship form.
The victim let him into the hallway and he followed her into the lounge.
The boy claimed he had lost his pen and the victim went to look for one.
On her return he said he had his pen and left.
The offender stole a purse containing £100 and cards.
He is described as a white boy, about 12-years-old, with light brown hair and a medium build.
He was described as nicely spoken, well mannered and wearing a green sweatshirt and jeans or jogging bottoms.
Pc Snezhanna Lennon, from Newbury police station, said: “We would urge the public to report any suspicious behaviour and contact us if you have been called upon by anyone claiming to be collecting for school fundraising events or charity.
“We would like to remind people to be cautious when answering the door to people collecting money.
“Please ensure you ask for identification and we would strongly advise not letting them into your home.”
Anyone who has information about the incident should contact Pc Lennon on the police non-emergency number on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at