Bogus caller steals cash in Market Drayton

A man called at a house in the town yesterday claiming he needed to check the back of the property to install wind turbines.

The resident showed him to the back, but when she returned to her home another man was leaving the address.

After both men had left, she discovered cash had been stolen.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

Detective Constable Marv Choudhury said: "These callers will use ways to distract the occupant, making up stories to get into the house and then when they're inside stealing anything valuable that may be on display.

"Often, their stories are very convincing and the occupant will have no reason not to think they are genuine but we really want people to be on their guard.

"If in any doubt don't let them in, a genuine caller will not mind coming back another time when you've had chance to check their credentials or arranged to have a relative, friend or neighbour there too."

Any witnesses, or anyone in Market Drayton who thinks they may have been visited by these men, are asked to contact West Mercia Police on 101, quoting reference 479s.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.