Doorstep conmen preying on elderly say police

POLICE in Rotherham have received reports of three incidents of bogus callers at the homes of elderly people in Rotherham over the past week.

Last Thursday, an 82-year-old man was visited at his home in Kimberworth, Rotherham by a man claiming to be from the water board and on the same day an 86-year-old woman was visited in Thurcroft.

And on Saturday, a 77-year-old man was visited at his home in East Dene, by two men claiming to be checking his water.

A police spokeswoman said: “We would like to remind the public that this is a very nasty crime that is directed at vulnerable or elderly people.

“It is of the highest importance you should only open your doors to family and friends.

“Any repairs or maintenance should be pre-booked with the relevant utility or maintenance company with an agreed date and time and wherever possible have a family member or friend there for the visit.”

Police are not saying if anything was stolen as this would affect ongoing investigations.