Police Praise Bank Staff Over Church Stretton Bogus Callers

Police have praised staff at a Church Stretton bank for preventing an elderly woman falling victim to bogus callers.

Staff at the Lloyds TSB branch in the High Street alerted police when the 78-year-old customer came into the bank today asking to withdraw a large sum of cash to pay two men for doing gardening work at her home.

Detective Inspector Sarah Wagstaff said: "Their suspicions were raised because the lady seemed confused and anxious.

"They asked her a few questions and she said two men were waiting down the road to be paid for cutting some hedges. They initially wanted £450 but then increased it to £750, saying they had done some other work a year ago."

DI Wagstaff said there was no doubt the men were bogus callers who carried out minimal work for extortionate prices. "These people tend to call on elderly people because they know they are vulnerable and often living alone. They can be very persuasive and demanding."

She praised the bank staff for their alertness. "The bank obviously knew the lady and sensed she may be acting under duress. They did exactly the right thing in following their suspicions and contacting the police. When the lady did not reappear, the men quickly left the area but at least their victim did not handover any money."

DI Wagstaff said people should not accept offers from strangers asking to do work in the garden or on the house. "If you need any jobs doing, contact a local tradesperson, so you know they are genuine when they call and also how much they are going to charge.

"I would also ask all residents to notify the police should they have strangers calling offering to do work. The police will then be able to check out their credentials and if they are genuine, no harm is done. The number to call is 0300 333 3000."

Issued: Wednesday 28 July 2010