Police issue thefts warning

4:16pm Wednesday 14th January 2009

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POLICE in Kendal today warned residents to secure their vehicles and homes after burglaries and car thefts were reported in the town.

On Tuesday, an elderly woman in Aynam Road was the victim of a distraction burglary involving two men, one of them claiming to be a water company employee.

The “vulnerable” householder allowed the first man into her home at around 1.30pm. While she was distracted, a second man entered the house and searched the rooms. An unknown quantity of cash was stolen.

The first man is described as white, in his early 30s, around 5ft 2ins to 5ft 4ins with short dark hair and cleanly shaven. He was wearing black trousers and a black long sleeved top.

The second man is described as white, around 5ft 6ins and of a heavier build. He was wearing a dark coloured cap with a peak.

Detective Sergeant John Robson from Kendal CID said: “We would like to speak to anyone who may have information relating to the burglary or who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Aynam Road, Parr Street and Whitton Terrace during the early part of Tuesday afternoon.

“Preying on the elderly and vulnerable within our communities is a cowardly, callus crime and we need the help of the public to ensure that the offenders are identified and brought to justice.

“Members of the public are encouraged to look out for elderly neighbours and report any suspicious activity or individuals immediately. Residents are also reminded to always check the identity of business callers as identification cards will always be carried and readily offered. If in doubt, keep them out. Genuine callers will always provide a contact number for their head office in order for you to the nature of their work.”

Meanwhile, overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday, a house on Collin Road in Kendal was burgled.

Thieves entered the rear of the house and stole items from the kitchen area, including keys to a Grey VW Golf GTI parked at the front of the premises. The offenders made off in the stolen vehicle.

Det Sgt Robson said: “This is one of a number of burglaries in the Kendal area of late where high powered or high value vehicles have been stolen. The most vulnerable properties appear to be on the outskirts of the town where roads allow easy access to major routes to and from the area.”