Man bailed after hundreds of pounds stolen when pensioner was targeted by distraction burglars in Mansfield

The 77-year-old victim was in his static caravan, on a mobile home park off Old Mill Lane, Forest Town, when he answered a knock on his door on Tuesday morning, December 6.

A man offered to do some gardening and the pensioner agreed to pay him £260 for the work.

Nottinghamshire Police said, after the work was done, the pensioner fetched a jar of cash and the man offered to help him open it.

He then took out a large number of banknotes, before handing the jar back to the pensioner.

Before he left, the man suggested he get his friend to check the caravan roof. The friend arrived, but the pensioner declined his offer of repairs, after being quoted £1,000.

After the pair left, the pensioner checked his money jars and wallet and found about £770 was missing.

A short time later, the initial caller returned, but, after asking him to leave, the pensioner noted his registration number.

Police were called and traced the vehicle. A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and theft.

Police said today, Friday, December 9, he had been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Detective Sergeant Jo Eaton, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a despicable crime on a vulnerable person.

“I urge people, especially those who are vulnerable, not to answer the door to anybody who calls unannounced, especially somebody claiming to be a workman.

“No reputable workman or engineer would call in this way.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting incident 262 of December 6.