0830hrs, 10/11/09
Press Office, Fettes

Police in Dalkeith are appealing for information after an elderly man was robbed by two women purporting to be from the charity, Age Concern.

At about midday on Saturday (November 7) the women called at the 73-year-old man's door in Landsbury Court.

He let them into his house, and sat down to talk to the younger of the two women in the kitchen, a minute or two later he was aware of the older woman coming in from the direction of the living room.

A short while later the older lady went to get something from her car, and when she returned they both made excuses and left.

The man was suspicious of their behaviour, and realised a three figure sum of money had been taken from the house.

The first suspect is described as being in her 40s, with long dark hair, and was wearing a dark blue raincoat and pink wellies.

The other woman was in her teens, with a tanned complexion, and was also wearing pink wellies.

A police spokesperson said: "We are appealing for anyone who might recognise the description of the women, or who may have seen them in area, to contact police.

"Furthermore, the basic advice when it comes to bogus callers is that if you're not expecting a call at your door don't answer it. If you think a caller is bogus, or you feel threatened or unsafe, contact police immediately. If they're using a car, it's helpful if you can note any vehicle descriptions or registration numbers."

Claire Murray, spokesperson for Age Concern and Help the Aged in Scotland said: "We are concerned that our name is being used to con vulnerable older people out of badly needed cash.

"There are often far reaching consequences for older victims of this despicable sort of crime in that their trust, confidence and faith in others is badly eroded leading in some cases to enforced isolation and depression.

"It may be difficult or embarrassing to ask for identification, but we cannot stress enough that this has unfortunately become a necessity when you don't personally know the caller.

"If there is any doubt - keep them out."

Police are issuing the following advice on how to deal with cold-callers:

* Keep front and back doors locked

* Fit a door chain, and use it

* Only deal with callers by appointment

* Always ask for identification, and check it carefully

* Do not pay for any goods or services in cash, and don't keep large sums of money in the home

* If you are concerned about anything suspicious, inform police, or West Lothian Council Trading Standards, on 01506 775 000

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.