A HEARTLESS criminal tried to steal money from a woman in her nineties after following her into her home, police say.

The offender went round to the woman's house, on High Street, Kirkby Stephen, at around 2.15pm yesterday and tried to claim that her son had arranged for him to fix her roof.

He then demanded money from her and when she refused and went back into her home, he followed her inside and attempted to take money from her twice more.

The elderly lady continued to refuse his demands and he eventually left empty handed.

Enquires are ongoing to identify this offender.

Sergeant Laura Milburn, of Cumbria Police, said:"Distraction burglars prey on the most vulnerable people in society.

"They use high-pressured techniques to gain entry to homes and demand money for a product or service.


"Whilst in the house they may also steal possessions and money that they can find.

"We do want to stress that not all cold callers are criminals.

"Those who are there for legitimate purposes will be willing to show you identification, provide you with contact details of their business and should not pressurise you into trying to get into your home.

"Our aim is to help protect vulnerable members of our communities and ensure that they have the confidence to say no and shut the door.

"I’d also ask that members of the public look out for vulnerable members of the community and report any suspicious activity.

"Following this Police can then be deployed to the area where the salesmen’s identities and authenticities can be verified."

If you wish to make a complaint about a trader or report illegal doorstep activities please report the matter to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or call the Police on 101.

Anyone with information into the attempted distraction burglary yesterday is asked to contact police on 101.