Storrington pensioner scammed out of thousands

On several dates between Wednesday (November 20) and the end of that month, the man called at the address of the woman, who is in her late 80s, in Storrington.

He convinced her that her roof was leaking and that she should go to her bank to withdraw a large sum of money to pay him to fix the roof.

She did so on two occasions and paid him several thousand pounds in cash.

This was a scam and no work was carried out.

The suspect is described as 5 foot 10 inches, of medium to stocky build, in his early 40s and with dark hair. He had a plaster on his forehead.

Detective Constable Beccy Hopkins said; “If you have seen this man in the Storrington area recently, or if you have any other information, please contact us via 101 or email [email protected] serial 0445 of 30/11.

“Always be sure the caller is who they say they are before letting them in.

“All genuine callers will have identification and won’t mind you asking to see it. If you are not sure, don’t let them in. A genuine caller will not require large sums of money before work has been completed.

“Everyone can help prevent such despicable crimes by ensuring that your elderly friends, neighbours and relatives are aware of this advice and keep an eye out for unknown visitors to their homes.”