Warning over bogus water workers

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Water bosses have issued a warning to customers across the North West after woman, 90, dies.

The pensioner answered the door to three men posing as water board officials.

The elderly woman collapsed and died after thieves pushed their way into her house in Wolverhampton.

Hester Mottershead was taken ill minutes after the burglary at her home in Saxonfields, Tettenhall, on Friday.

Her death is being treated as murder by police, who said it was believed she suffered a stroke.

Three men had entered her home after posing as water board officials and spent 30 minutes searching the house, West Midlands Police said.

United Utilities, the north west of England water and wastewater provider, are asking customers to be on their guard.

Spokesman Shaun Robinson said, "Our advice to householders is not to let anyone into your house if you are unsure of who they are.

"These are unscrupulous conmen who are taking advantage of people's trusting nature. We very rarely call without an appointment. Always ask for an identity card before letting anyone into your home.

"All our staff carry identity cards bearing their name, photograph, and a contact landline telephone number. You can check they are for real by calling our customer enquiries number 0845 746 2200, which you’ll also find at the top of your water bill.

"Our staff will be happy to wait while to make these checks.

"No-one who works for United Utilities would use the phrase ‘water board’ in describing our business. Be very suspicious of anyone who says this.

"We would also ask people to be good neighbours and keep a special eye out for householders who are elderly or vulnerable as they can been extremely susceptible to conmen like this.”

Tracey Pennant, Crime Reduction Specialist from Greater Manchester Police said: "Thankfully these types of incidents are quite rare but I'd like to take this opportunity to remind residents to be extra vigilant by keeping the chain on the door and asking to see identification. If your visitor is an official then they will not mind you asking to see this.

"Keep your chain on the door and if in doubt, call the company they are claiming to be from using the number from the book to check they are legitimate. And remember, you are under no obligation to answer the door if you do not want to. If in doubt, keep them out."

People with information about suspicious activity can call their local police or, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, the confidential Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111.