IN Crimestoppers this week, the police are seeking help in tracking down a bogus official who targetted the elderly, an opportunist thief who stole from a car hire office and a burglar.

A man claiming to be from 'the waterboard' was allowed into sheltered accommodation, in Swansea Street, Ashton, and stole cash and jewellery from its occupants.

The thief is described as white, in his mid-thirties, with a pale complexion, gaunt appearance, and short dark hair. He was wearing a turquoise Polo shirt and blue jeans.

He called at the elderly residents' complex between 12.45pm and 2pm on Tuesday, April 27. He took £240 in cash, a solitaire diamond ring, a ladies gold watch, a ladies gold necklace with fob watch, and a three-diamond cluster engagement ring from several flats.

A white man in his late thirties is believed to have stolen a large amount of cash and cheques from a briefcase left in a car hire office, in Wigan Road, Leyland.

The thief - described as 5ft 9ins, slim, with a pale complexion, collar-length dark hair, and wearing an open-neck white shirt - struck between 5.20pm and 7.20pm on Wednesday, April 28.

A burglar stole money from a drawer in an office next to living quarters in New Lane, Penwortham, at around 5.25pm on Wednesday, April 28. The man - described as white, aged 18-20, 5ft 4ins tall, of medium build, with dark brown short hair, and wearing dark trousers - was disturbed as he made his way into the accommodation area. He made an excuse - speaking in a local accent - and left.

It is believed that this man is responsible for a similar offence committed at about 3pm on Thursday, April 29, in Lords Avenue, Lostock Hall.

Anyone with information on any of the crimes above should call Crimestoppers - in confidence - on 0800 555 111.

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