Rogue trader cons Burnley woman (86) - police alert

The 86-year-old woman was approached at her home in the Casterton Avenue area by a man who said her front wall needed work. He offered to fix it for £20 and made the woman feel so uncomfortable that she handed over the money.

The man, who officers believe had damaged the wall before speaking to the woman, was aged between 60 and 65, around 5ft. tall with very little hair and was driving an orange and yellow van.

He left without completing the job and PCSO Natalie Whittaker said: “It is important that residents remain alert and report anything suspicious to the police.

“Anyone who is concerned about the identity of a person at their door should check the caller’s ID and, if possible, contact the company the caller is claiming to be from.

“If you are suspicious, don’t let them in and if they are genuine callers, they won’t mind you being extra cautious.”

Police have advised people to make sure their doors are locked and when answering the door, ensure the chain or door bar is in place before asking for ID.

Anyone with concerns about suspicious activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact police on 0845 1 253545 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who needs work on their property should contact the Safe Trader Scheme run by Help Direct on 0303 333 1111. It gives details of qualified and trusted traders.