Police in Edinburgh are appealing for information following a bogus caller incident that happened in the Belgrave area of the city on Monday 10 June 2013.
A man called at an address in Belgrave Gardens at around 12.30 and offered to clean the steps outside of the house. The male obtained money but, despite remaining in the area, failed to carry out any work.
The man is described as white, around 5ft 7ins – 5ft 8ins tall, medium build, Scottish accent, wearing yellow gloves with black dimples and possibly a yellow jacket.
Detective Constable Ben Leathes from Police Scotland said: “This was a callous deception of an elderly woman who reluctantly paid for work which wasn’t actually done. We are appealing for any information that can help us trace the man concerned.
“Anyone who recognises his description or who has received a similar approach at their own home in the last few days should contact police. It is likely that the man is using a vehicle between calls so anyone who has had suspicions around a vehicle in this area should also contact us.
“At this time we would advise anyone who receives an unsolicited call at their property by anyone offering to carry out maintenance work to refuse, unless they are absolutely certain of their credentials.
“Anyone with suspicions over the intentions of any cold caller should notify police immediately, by contacting Police Scotland on 101.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
