4:28pm Friday 28th November 2008
Police have released an evofit of a bogus official who conned an elderly woman in Penwortham.
Between 4.30pm and 5pm on Monday, a man pretending to be from the water board knocked on the door of the lady on Belgrave Avenue.
Although she asked him to show identification, he said he had left it in his van and entered her property.
Once inside the house, the man checked under the sink and looked at radiators before making her switch on all the taps.
It is then thought he let two other men in who stole a quantity of cash and jewellery.
They all then made off towards Broadoak Avenue.
An evofit of the man has been released and he is described as, white aged 50 – 52 years of age, 5ft 4” to 5ft 6” tall, slim build, fine grey hair thinning on top and a pale complexion.
He was wearing a dark coloured suit and spoke with an Irish accent.
Detective Constable Dave Johnson from Leyland CID said: “I would appeal for anyone who was in the area and who saw these men to contact me.
"This really is a sickening incident whereby a defenceless elderly lady has had money and jewellery stolen.
“I believe that the men could have made good of their escape in a car so I would be particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time.
"I would also like to reassure the public that these cases are rare but please be on your guard.
"If you have trades people calling at your home then ask to see their identification and if in doubt call the organisation up to ask for verification.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call Leyland police on 01772 415945 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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