Conman targets man of 97

8:29pm Thursday 3rd July 2008

POLICE in Taunton are appealing for witnesses after an elderly man was the victim of a distraction burglary.

The 97-year-old answered the door to an unknown man at his home in Wordsworth Drive at 3.40pm on Tuesday.

The man claimed he worked for the Government and was calling regarding the victim's garden fence.

The victim took the man into the rear garden and chatted, before the man left a short time later.

The victim then returned indoors to find £900 had been stolen from a box in his bedroom.

The man who spoke to the victim was between 28 and 34 years old, 5ft 6in to 5ft 8in tall, with a round face and stocky build.

He was clean shaven and had brown hair that was neat and tidy.

It is thought a second male may well have gone into the house while the victim was distracted.

Police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed this incident, may have been victim to a similar crime, or might know the offenders involved.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800-55511.

Householders, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, are reminded to use the Doorstep Code whenever answering the door to unknown callers.

Never let anyone into your home you are not entirely comfortable with.

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