Police renew burglary witness plea after woman dies

Shirley Long, 77, was first admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties after two men forced their way into her house in Manchester Road, Bradford, on Sunday November 17.

The men fled with cash, bank cards and a mobile phone.

Mrs Long died in hospital on Wednesday night as a result of bronchial pneumonia.

Police have said that her death is not related to the robbery.

Mrs Long was at home when she answered the door to two menwho were claiming to be council workers.

When she realised they were not who they said they were she tried to close the door but they forced their way in and she was pushed out of the way.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Wallen, who is leading the investigation, said: “Mrs Long was a frail and vulnerable member of the community and clearly she never recovered from this heartless attack.

“The men who robbed her committed a cowardly and despicable crime and need to be swiftly brought to justice.

“That’s why we are again calling for anyone with information to come forward.”

Neighbourhood Policing Team officers conducted reassurance patrols in the area following the robbery.

Two men from Bradford, both aged 37, were arrested on suspicion of robbery and remain on bail.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.