A 93-yr old Formby man got mugged on his own doorstep

Merseyside Police are appealing for witnesses after a theft from a house in Formby on Tuesday 31 January.

At around 2.20pm, a report was received of a man knocking on the door of a house in Crown Close and asking the victim if he wanted his trees to be chopped down. When the victim declined the man’s services, it is believed that the offender stole a wallet from inside the hall, containing bank cards and cash.

The man is described as white, of slim build, in his 40's, wearing dark clothing and in a dark vehicle which was pulling a long trailer.

Patrols have been stepped up in the area to provide reassurance to the community.

Community Policing Inspector Graham Fisher said: “Thankfully the bank cards were immediately cancelled but this was a despicable offence targeting an elderly man in his own home, a place where anyone has the right to feel safe and secure. I can assure the community that we are actively working to identify the person involved in this incident so they can be brought to justice. If you have any information contact us and we will act.

"I would also appeal to people to keep an eye on any elderly and vulnerable neighbours and family members, especially when such services are being offered by cold callers. If you notice anyone suspicious in the area or any unfamiliar vehicles, always call the Police or contact your local neighbourhood policing team for more advice."

There are a number of steps everyone can take to help prevent this type of crime and they include:

Do not open your door if you are unsure who the caller is. Always make sure you know who visitors are by asking to see their identification. Never let people into your property if you don't know them. Always keep the key chain on the door whilst talking to callers and always check their ID before letting them into your home. Genuine callers won't mind you doing this. If callers haven't got valid identification, don't let them in Bogus callers often pretend to be someone official, for example, from a utility company or the water board. They will also try to distract people by asking for a drink of water or if they can use the toilet. Remember "if in doubt, keep them out"

Remember to close and lock the back door before you answer the front door. It's a good idea to have a viewer or spy hole and a stout chain fitted to all the external doors to the property.

Don't keep large quantities of cash at home. It's better in the bank where it's safe. If someone asks for your help (for example, if they want to make a telephone call or claim to have lost a ball in your garden) always ask a friend or neighbour, or someone else you trust, for help.

Formby Bubble has received letters appealing to people to be vigilant after this horrific crime. One resident said: "Could you please make the people of Formby aware that there is a conman going around preying on old vulnerable people in our community. A family friend of ours was victim of this, this afternoon."

Another family friend said: "That man served this country and has never done a bad deed to anyone. How can you live with yourself? That wallet not only contained over £200 but also had many memories and photos almost 100 years old. Shame on you!"

The man is said to be very upset, shocked and shaken up by the incident but thankfully, unhurt.

The incident happened on Crown Close on the afternoon of Tuesday 31st January. Anyone with information which could help the police with their inquiries is asked to contact the non-emergency 101 number or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.