Conmen stole cash from a vulnerable pensioner

Conmen stole cash at an 82-year-old woman's home on Deeplish Road sometime between 11.45am and 12.15pm on 21 May 2010.

The first man opened a side gate at the woman's house and went into the back garden, where he signalled for her to come out. She did so and they started chatting.

While she was distracted, his accomplice came through the same gate and went into the house through the back door which was now open, and stole a small amount of cash.

The woman asked the first man to leave which he did, and when she returned to her house she confronted the second man in the living room and also told him to leave.

The pair then ran off onto Deeplish Road towards Milkstone Road.

The first man is described as white, about 20-years-old, of a slim build and about 5ft 7in tall. He had dark shot blonde hair and was wearing a dark long-sleeved top and dark bottoms. The second man was Asian, about 20-years-old, of a stocky build and 5ft 8in tall. He was wearing a navy blue shirt, navy blue trousers and a baseball cap.

Police are now appealing to anyone with information to come forward, and are asking residents to be on their guard and not fall victim to this sort of burglary.

Detective Constable Nick Price said: "I would urge everyone in the community to be vigilant, and look after the older people living next door or across the road from you.

"Unfortunately, the people who commit this type of crime prey on people who they believe to be vulnerable.

"Our message is clear - do not open your door to unexpected callers. If they are genuine companies make sure that they make prearranged appointments via their official office.

"If you doubt that the person is genuine follow your instinct and call the police every time. You will not be criticised in any way for doing this, we want to help and protect you, and will respond quickly to your call."

Anyone with information is asked to call DC Nick Price at Rochdale CID on 0161 856 1977 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Some important safety tips:

• When a stranger knocks on your door, keep it latched at all times. If you do not have a latch ask them to push their identity card through the letterbox. 
• Do not let anyone into your house without verifying their identity. Check the name of the company in the phone book, and call the company before letting them in to make sure they are genuine. 
• If you have any concerns at all do not let the person in. 
• Ask them to call back when a family member, friend or neighbour is there. Genuine callers would never wish to cause distress, and would be happy to call again. 
• Finally, look out for your neighbours, and report any suspicious activity to police.