‘Water Board’ Trickster Steals £700 From Woman Aged 80

Published on: 4 Sep, 2015
Updated on: 7 Sep, 2015

A Guildford woman in her eighties had £700 in cash stolen by a man posing as a water board employee.

The distraction burglary took place in Park Barn just before 5pm on Saturday, August 29. The trickster told the woman there was a burst water main and “everyone’s taps had to be bled”.

While the victim was watching a tap running in her kitchen it is believed that the man made a search of her property before leaving with the cash.

The man is described as being white, around 5ft 6in of a stocky build, in his 40s, clean shaven with a round, red, puffy face.

It is reported that he had an identification card attached to a cord around his neck printed with ‘Water Board’.

He was wearing a black woolly hat, black puffer jacket, black trousers and black boots.

Detective Constable Andy Walsh of Surrey Police said: “I am advising residents, especially the elderly, to remain vigilant and be on their guard with any unexpected visitors, however convincing their story may seem – always check for identification before letting anyone into your home.

“I urge anyone who has an elderly neighbour, or relative, to help by making them aware of the potential risks and keep an eye out for suspicious people around their properties.

“Anyone acting suspiciously or in an unusual manner in the area at around the time of this offence to contact officers as soon as possible by calling 101.

“Similarly, we are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has had a similar experience to get in contact with police. Any information could prove vital to the investigation and assist in bringing the person responsible to justice.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Surrey Police quoting reference 45150077811 or the online reporting system at https://my.surrey.police.uk/splonlinereportingweb.

If you want to remain anonymous you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.