Con artists pretended to be Epping Forest District Council contractors to target elderly man (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Con artists pretended to be Epping Forest District Council contractors to target elderly man

5:50pm Friday 3rd July 2009 in

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CONMEN targeted a pensioner by pretending to be contractors from the council.

Two men in their 30s approached an elderly man at his home in Valley Hill, Loughton, last Wednesday, July 1.

They claimed to be contractors from Epping Forest District Council and told the man they would need £45 in cash to pay for work replacing a missing tile.

They offered to go with the man to his home or local bank to withdraw the money, promising that they would give him a receipt.

The man refused to hand over the money and the two conmen left, but the council is warning residents to be aware of the ploy which Essex Police are investigating.

Community safety portfolio holder Syd Stavrou said: “No-one working for the Council will ever come up to you in the street or your home and ask for cash. If you are approached, keep them out and call the Police.

“All employees and contractors working for the Council carry identity cards with a phone number. They will never ask to come into your home without an appointment. Ask to see the ID card and if you have any doubts, phone the Council before you let them in.”