Man named on most wanted list

3:26pm Wednesday 10th October 2007

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A CONMAN living a "millionaire" lifestyle is wanted by police for a host of offences committed across Lancashire.

Kevin David Castle, 42, who is also wanted in Manchester and Nottingham, is being hunted over alleged money laundering, shop-lifting and identity theft crimes.

Police said he most recently committed a shoplifting offence at B&Q in Bamber Bridge but is believed to have targeted other businesses in the county.

Greater Manchester police are looking for him in connection with 85 thefts, many committed at Homebase DIY stores.

One of these was Homebase at Accrington where he is alleged to have taken £89.94.

In many of the cases a fake receipt was produced along with a shoplifted item to get a cash refund.

It is believed Castle is living in London in rented accommodation costing more than £1,000 per week.

Police said he often used hire cars and tended to drive large, expensive vehicles.

He is said to wear designer clothes and is known to frequent high-class establishments in London such as the Ritz, Claridges and the Dorchester Hotel.

DC Anita Fishwick said: "We have been looking for Kevin Castle for some time now, but he seems to move around the country.

"Mr Castle is quite distinctive because of his clothing and his millionaire-type lifestyle.

"We are very keen to trace this man and speak to him in connection with our inquiries.

"We believe he may also be purporting to be an electrical engineer, alarm fitter and property developer.

"The public need to be aware of this, when employing any such contractors.

"He has alleged himself to be the director of a business called 1st Global Enterprises and acquired hire vehicles and services under this guise, most of which has remained unpaid."

Castle is now featured on Lancashire Constabulary's Most Wanted page on the internet - www.lancashire.police.uk.

He is white and 5ft 5ins tall, but often wears blocks in his shoes to give him more height. He has mousey brown receding hair.

Anyone with information should contact police on 01772 614444 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

l His long-term partner Elaine Rogers, 46, has been charged with money laundering and obtaining a mortgage by deception.