Men posing as 'Water Board' workers steal £30 from elderly couple: Wensley Road, Reading
(RG1 - Thursday, 19 August, 2010)

The images are related to a distraction burglary which happened during the morning of the 19 July at Wensley Road, Reading.

Two men have gained entry to the property by posing as workers for the water board.

Once inside, they have distracted the occupants and stolen £30 cash.

It is believed they left the area in an old style Ford Transit, which appeared to have been painted red by hand.

The victims were elderly; one was 94 years-old.

The images are taken from McColls newsagent on Wensley Road, at around the time of the incident.

Det Con Danny Bowles, of Reading serious crime team, said:

"People who commit this type of crime prey on the elderly and vulnerable, and I am very keen to try and identify these men to move this investigation on."

Reading Crime Reduction Officer John Mcnicholas said:

"Distraction burglary is a horribly intrusive crime where people deliberately target the elderly and vulnerable.

"The method used in these two incidents is not new and the water board line is one that we urge residents to look out for. The water board does not exist.

"Never let a stranger into your home without first verifying that person is who they say they are.

"I would urge anyone with elderly or vulnerable relatives, neighbours or carers to check their home security and alert them to the dangers of opening the door to a stranger.

"My advice is, don't let anybody you don't know into your home who you are not expecting.

"Make sure you can see the caller before you open the door and if you have a door chain, use it.

"Always ensure your back door is locked before opening the front door.

"If you think you have been visited by bogus callers or need further advice please don't hesitate to call us."

Anyone with any information about these incidents should contact Thames Valley Police on 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Thames Valley

Address:
Wensley Road
Reading
BERKSHIRE
RG1