Wilf Davison

Police in Whitefield and Prestwich are urging residents to be extra careful after a number of burglaries recently.

People calling at houses have pretended to be from the council and then stolen money from elderly residents.

Gaynor Mason, crime reduction advisor for Bury police said: “We would urge anyone who does have callers at the door to ask for identification. All official workers do carry identification and are pleased to show it. If you are still unsure then ring the company by looking up the number in the phone book. Any legitimate caller would be happy to wait while their credentials are being checked.

“People may feel embarrassed that they have become a victim of this type of crime but it’s important these crimes are reported, so we can investigate and catch the perpetrators.

If anyone knows the identity of the offender they should contact the priority crime unit at Bury on 0161 856 8179 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Bury MBC Service Managers and Managers within partner agencies are requested to ensure that staff, who may have a need to call on residents in the borough, carry suitable identification at all times.