Gobowen man, 84, falls victim to distraction thieves

An 84-year-old Gobowen man had cash and watches stolen when he was the target of a distraction burglary.

Police today warned elderly people to be on their guard after the incident at the pensioner's home.

Officers said two men called at the victim's home on Wednesday and told him they needed to inspect the water pipes at the property.

Detective Constable Mal Normandin said: "The victim was in his garden when approached by two unknown men.

"One said he had come to inspect the pipes.

"He then asked the occupant to go inside and turn off his tap which he did.

"Within a few minutes, the men said everything was fine and left the address.

"It was some time later that the gent realised a bedroom had been entered and a quantity of cash, a pocket watch and a wrist watch stolen."

Mr Normandin said the strangers called at the house at about 1pm and appealed for witnesses who may have seen them.

The two men were described as white and in their 20s.

One was said to be tall and thin and his accomplice was described as being of stocky build.

The officer said: "This is clearly a case of the men talking their way into the home and then distracting the occupier while one of them went into the bedroom to steal any cash or valuables they could find."

He said such offences were relatively rare in Shropshire but urged people, especially the elderly, to be on their guard.

"My advice is never to let strangers knocking on your door inside, whatever reason they give.

"Thieves will say they are from the water board or the council and need to come in to check something," he continued.

"This is the type of ruse they use to gain entry and then to distract the occupier.

"Do not let people who come calling without advance notice inside whatever excuse or reason they give.

Local authorities and utility companies nearly always write to householders first to say they will be visiting on such a date and at such a time.

"So don't let callers in and then call the police on 0300 333 3000 if you are suspicious or concerned in any way," he said.

By Iain St John