Police praise Keynsham pensioner who foiled distraction burglar

Police have today praised an elderly Keynsham woman who turned away a distraction burglar who tried to talk his way into her home.

They say the 82-year-old did exactly the right thing when the man approached her, offering to carry her shopping bags and then claiming he was from the council sent to some work at her home.

Det Sgt Andy Hodges said: "The woman was immediately suspicious and refused to let the man help her carry her shopping into her house. When he changed his story and said he'd been sent by the council to do some gardening, she quite rightly demanded to see proof of his identity - which of course he didn't have.

"He eventually gave up and walked away towards Queens Road and the woman called the police."

The incident happened at around 4.30pm yesterday outside the woman's terraced home in Keynsham.

The man is described as white and wearing a black jacket with badges and dark trousers. He is in his 20s, slim, around 5ft 2in with dark curly hair swept back and he has a moustache.

Police are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them on 101 or by reporting the crime here.

Householders are advised to follow the Doorstep Code

• Observe first - always look through a window or door viewer

• Only open the door after connecting a chain or limiter

• Refuse entry if you are not satisfied

• Switch on outside lights when it's dark to see who's there

• Think 'thief' - ask to see an identity card and check it closely

• Ensure strangers are not left alone in your home

• Protect yourself - if you are worried, ring the police