The BurySafe Partnership, in particular the Police and Trading Standards, would like your help generally in preventing doorstep crime (bogus officials and/or rogue traders).

Across the borough in the last few days, we have had several doorstep crime incidents; the tactic or modus operandi has been as follows;

Water Board Officials - Elderly people have been targeted by individuals posing as bogus officials from the Water Board (actually United Utilities) and in some cases they have displayed fake identification cards. House holders are often distracted when asked to check water pressure or taps and other accomplices enter the property and acquire items or cash.

Security Intercom or Equipment - In this case two individuals, a male and female, were purporting to be working for a company in Blackpool who were doing work for Six Town Housing.

If you have any elderly or vulnerable relatives, or know any one who may be the potential victim of doorstep crime, please try to discourage them from buying goods and services on their door step. Encourage them not to open doors to strangers cold calling. If they have any concerns about their water or other services they should contact their service provider direct. Please also encourage residents to use their door chains and/or not to be afraid to refuse entry. If they are unsure do not open the door. If in doubt keep them out.

Stickers can be made available for any one who would like them which state no cold calling. If anyone wants to report a door step crime incident, please contact the police on the numbers below. Your Homewatch Coordinator may also be able to assist.

For further information or advice in the first instance contact The Police Crime Reduction Adviser on 0161-856-8046. Alternatively make contact with Trading Standards Tel 0161-253-5566 .

If a Crime is in progress contact the Police on 999 or 872 5050. Try to record as much information as possible.