Burglars claiming to be from water board targeted pensioner

Police said the two men called at the home of the 85-year-old woman on Lineholme Avenue on Monday between 5.30pm and 6pm.

One suspect got into the property and searched for items to steal without the victim’s knowledge after they claimed to be from the water board.

They are described as white males, 30 to 35-years-old, around 6ft tall and of slim build, police said.

Det Cons Eileen Walsh, of Calderdale CID, said: “Thankfully, the victim questioned the males’ motives and they left empty handed but that wasn’t before a search was carried out by one of the males unbeknown to the victim.”

Anyone with information or who saw suspicious males hanging around the area is asked to call police on 101.

Det Con Walsh added: “We’d like to reassure residents that this is being investigated but would urge people to remain vigilant.

Always check the identification of someone calling at your door, don’t let strangers in to your house and if you think something is not right, trust your instincts and check their identification. Genuine callers will not mind you asking and will show identification.

“Please be mindful who is hanging around and if you are worried call 999.”