Life savings stolen from 82-year-old Heywood man

An 82-year-old Heywood man’s life savings of £14,000 have been stolen following a burglary.

The man had taken his savings out of the bank to redecorate his house, buy some furniture and replace his car with an automatic.

A 16-year-old boy has been released under investigation in connection with the incident, after being arrested on Thursday 7 May on suspicion of burglary.

The burglary at Penn Street occurred sometime between 9.30pm and 11.30pm on Wednesday 6 May 2020.

The money has not yet been recovered.

This money was made up of the old ten pound paper notes, therefore police are asking for bank employees to please remain vigilant for a large number of old bank notes being deposited.

Officers are hoping the local community will come together to help the victim.

Posting on the GMP Heywood Facebook page, officers said: “We are now looking to help and support the victim and this is where I hope we can come together as a community.

“If any business or someone from the community thinks that they can help then please direct message with your contact details.

“We are looking to get his flat redecorated, and replace his car for an automatic, and any other ideas that people may have to help.”

If you think you can help, please message GMP Heywood via:

• www.facebook.com/gmpheywood/

A crowdfunder has been set up by Brandon Becconsall to help raise money for the man, known only as John, with costs covered for some housework by Signature Carpets and Kegs Caffe:

• www.gofundme.com/f/johns-funeral-money

Sergeant Andrew Toward, of GMP’s Rochdale division, said: “This is a truly sickening and abhorrent incident in which an offender broke into the home of a vulnerable, elderly member of our community and stole all of his life savings.

“Although the victim was not in at the time, he has been left feeling understandably shaken and frightened by the incident which has violated the safety and sanctity of his own home.

“He is currently being supported by our officers who remain committed to investigating this case and bringing those responsible to justice.

“I believe there is someone out there that has knowledge of this incident, and I am appealing for anyone who may have any information at all that can help us to identify those responsible for this burglary to please come forward and contact police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8606, quoting incident number 3342 of 6/5/20.

Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.