Ramsbottom Online

Bogus Calls Spark Warning to Local Residents

Two incidents in one day have sparked a warning from the council’s trading standards team for people to be on their guard against doorstep criminals.

The incidents both happened on June 3 but at opposite ends of the borough, one in Prestwich and one in Ramsbottom.

Interestingly, although the descriptions of the men involved in the scams were different, both told the residents that they were working on a neighbouring house and they needed to turn off the water supply to prevent a flood. Whilst distracted with the first offender, another male entered the property.

In Ramsbottom the second male was unseen, entered the house through an unlocked door, opened a cupboard and stole cash. In the incident in Prestwich, the second male was seen to enter the property and discuss the leak with the first. One of the criminals then offered to pay the vulnerable resident for the water used but claimed only to have a £50 note and asked for change. The resident removed their savings from a drawer and as soon as their back was turned both offenders left the house with the cash.

Residents are advised not to let the individual into the property and to check with United Utilities on 08457 462200 to see if there is any work of this nature being carried out in the local area if an individual comes to their home.

Tony Holt head of community safety for the council said; “Sadly bogus calls are not uncommon and it tends to be the more trusting vulnerable residents that are targeted. We want people to be on their guard. If you have an elderly neighbour that lives alone we advise you to let them know about the possibility of bogus callers in the area. We don’t want people to feel afraid in their own homes, but forewarned is forearmed.”