Warning as bogus water workers con pensioners

West Yorkshire Police said there had been five incidents in November and December where two men posing as workers from the water board have been allowed into homes before stealing cash.

The latest offence, was last Thursday when two men called at a house on Dudley Avenue, Batley, and asked to check the water supply.

While the 80-year-old man at the house was helping one of the men in his kitchen, the second man stole cash from a wallet, in the living room of the house. The pair then fled the house.

The previous day, a similar theft took place at a house in the Stainthorpe area where a 69-year-old woman was the victim.

On November 16, there were two burglaries at homes on Whinberry Place and Carr Street, while on November 5, another burglary took place on East Street, Batley.

In all of the offences, the victims were elderly and cash was stolen from inside the homes, police said last night.

Sgt Sam Carter, of the Batley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "These types of crime are despicable as the suspects are targeting some of our most vulnerable residents.

"I am, therefore, asking people to be careful about who they are allowing into their homes and to check the credentials of cold callers who say they are from utility companies like the water board.

"Legitimate callers will generally make appointments in advance and if they do call unannounced, will be happy to wait while you check out their credentials with their office."

Sgt Carter added: "I would also like to ask the friends and family members of the elderly to check in with them to make sure that they are aware of these incidents and to pass on the guidance we are giving."