Police seek couple suspected of trying to steal from the elderly

At 2pm yesterday, a man and a woman both described as being in their twenties approached an 89-year-old woman who was in her wheelchair in Aldsworth Avenue, Goring. They said they were friends of a neighbour and suggested that they go back to the woman’s house for tea. She did not agree and they went away.

At about 3.50pm on the same day a man and a woman called at a house in Goring Way, occupied by a 90-year-old woman. They said they were neighbours who had come to check on her welfare, and the man began to look round the house.

However the occupier did not recognise them and challenged their reasons for being there, at which they left. Nothing was stolen.

Detective Sergeant Jason Turner said: “We believe the same couple are involved in both incidents and would like to hear from anyone who saw them or may know who they are.

“The two women were right to be suspicious and did very well in challenging the couple. We always advise residents not to get involved with cold callers or strangers in the street. Have nothing to do with them and report any suspicions to us via 999 if they are still present, or via 101 at any other time.”

Detectives are considering the possibility that these two incidents may be connected with the theft of a handbag from a resident in Aldsworth Avenue by a bogus caller on January 10 and the theft of cash from an elderly resident in Goring Way on January 14.

Detectives have released an e-fit of the man believed to have been involved and are appealing for assistance in identifying him.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 1116 of 10/1, or email [email protected] or call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.