Attempted Burglary: Withington

A MAN claiming to be from a repair company has tried to burgle a home in south Manchester. 

Just after 9.30am on Monday 21 November 2011, the 79-year-old victim answered a knock at the door of his home on Stephens Road, Withington. 

A man dressed in a white shirt and tie, calling himself Alan Little, claimed to be from Care and Repair and was there to fix floorboards. 

The victim let him in before the man asked could he use his toilet. 

Around 20 minutes later, the man said the work had been done and left. 

The victim noticed his wardrobe had been opened and searched but nothing was taken. 

He is described as being white, in his 20s, with a thin face, large nose, had short brown hair and acted in a nervous manner. 

Detective Constable Craig Barry from the Volume Crime Team said: "This incident has left the victim feeling unnerved by his experience but fortunately, nothing was taken. 

"Offenders such as these see the vulnerable and elderly members of our community as easy pickings and it is important we look out for one another to try and prevent them from striking again. 

"I would also encourage residents to follow the "Lock, Stop, Chain, Check" method to keep offenders at bay; keep all doors locked, always open the door with the chain on and check identification. 

"If you are in any doubt call the company that the caller claims to be from because genuine callers won't mind you doing this and never let anyone into your home without verifying who they are. If you are worried about your safety then call the police." 

Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 6038 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.