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Jordanhill woman, 85, conned out of four-figure sum of cash by bogus workman

Conman took money from pensioner for work he said he would do but then left.

Police are warning the public to be on their guard after an elderly pensioner in the West End was conned out of a four-figure sum of money.

The 85-year-old victim was targeted by a man who called unsolicited at her house in Victoria Park Drive North on Thursday December 15.

She agreed for him to undertake work on the roof of her home, and was taken to the Royal Bank of Scotland in Clydebank to withdraw payment.

He took her money but did not carry out the work.

The suspect is described as white, between 30 and 40 years of age, 5ft8 to 5ft10 in height, of slim build and had a scar on the left hand side of his head.

He was wearing a black jacket, a black woolly hat, blue jeans and red trainers.

Detective Constable David Gilchrist, Glasgow North West CID, is appealing for information.

He said: “The man had called unsolicited to the lady’s home in Jordanhill where he stated that her roof required repair.

"He gave her a price and then took her in his vehicle (not known if van or car, make or colour) to the bank in Clydebank – not her normal branch.

“She withdrew a four figure sum of cash and gave it to the suspect who drove her back to her home.

"He has not been seen since and has not been in contact with her to carry out the work.

“Unfortunately, this is the second time the lady involved would appear to have been conned out of money and she is very, very upset by what has happened.

“I would ask that anyone who saw the man or a vehicle at her home or even at the bank in Clydebank or indeed, who has any information that will assist with our enquiries, contact Glasgow North West CID in Drumchapel via 101.

"Alternatively, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”

Chief Inspector Morag Stewart, local area commander, Drumchapel Police office, said: “We would like to remind people to be careful when approached by callers who come to your door unannounced or uninvited and offer to carry out work to your home or sell items to you.

“Whilst many may be genuine, there are some people who will try to con you of money – sometimes large amounts of money.

“If you are at all suspicious of people who call at your home, ask them for identification and why they’re there.

"It's known that rogue traders will usually cold call, claiming to be workers offering to make repairs or carry out work on your house, garden or driveway.

"In reality, they charge inflated prices for substandard or unnecessary work or are trying to get into your home to steal valuables.

"Generally people are very trusting and it’s just wrong that these conmen prey on that trust or the vulnerabilities of some people and it can have a hugely detrimental effect on the life of victims.

“By following some easy steps you can save yourself becoming a victim of this type of crime; for example, don’t let callers into your house unless they have an appointment and have confirmed they are genuine.

"If you are in any doubt, tell the caller to come back when someone else is home, genuine callers won’t mind rearranging.

"I would also strongly advise against dealing with cold callers for property maintenance and repairs to your home – shop around if you decide you need work done.

“Finally, remember to look out for those in your community and report any suspicious activity immediately either by dialling 101 or 999 in an emergency.”

“Especially at this time of the year, I would ask people to look out for friends, family and neighbours who are older or vulnerable."

Advice on how to keep safe can be found on the http://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/personal-safety/doorstep-crime-and-bogus-callers.

* Featured cover image courtesy of Google.

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