To Home Watch Co-Ordinators/Community Contacts Chester West & Chester Area

3 August 2009

The following information has been received from Trading Standards. Please share widely with anyone who may benefit from the information.

It has become apparent recently that there has been a number of distraction burglaries reported to Cheshire Police.  Trading Standards would like to pass on this information in order that the public keep vigilant at all times.

On each occasion callers posing as Water Board Officials have tried to gain access to properties on the pretence of needing to check water pressure.  One resident who allowed the bogus caller entry to her property has since found a substantial amount of money missing.

Please be on your guard against this type of crime. Use your door chain and ask to see photographic identification. You can check the callers validity by contacting United Utilities on 0845 7462200.( Dee Valley Water 01978 846946 ) No genuine caller will mind waiting while you do this.

If you have any doubts whatsoever do not allow access and contact the Police immediately.  If in any doubt

KEEP THEM OUT

Please share this advice with friends, relatives and neighbours and anyone you know who may be vulnerable. If you have any information regarding similar incidents or circumstances please contact the Police on 0845 458 0000

For general consumer advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040 506
Cheshire Constabulary Western Watch Office supports Home Watch Schemes across Chester, Ellesmere Port, Neston and Vale Royal; and is based in the Western Partnership Office, Northwich Police Station.  Telephone 01244 614291    E-mail  western.watch@cheshire.pnn.police.uk

To contact the police call: 0845 458 0000   unless there is an emergency when you ring 999