New scheme to thwart bogus workmen

Published 19 Mar 2010 10:50 0 Comments

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POLICE in Tweeddale have rolled out a new Nominated Neighbour Scheme, which assists in tackling bogus caller crime.

Under the scheme, residents are encouraged to seek the help of a neighbour, friend, carer or relative in checking that unexpected callers to their door are genuine.

When an unexpected caller appears at the door, the occupant is encouraged not to enter into conversation with them or open the door, but to just show the card, which directs the caller to go to the house of the nearby 'Nominated Neighbour' who is better able to verify the caller's validity.

Last November, James Sharpe of Tweedsmuir, Biggar, fell victim to three crooks who offered to carry out work on his house after calling unannounced.

The callous crooks made off with £40,000 of the pensioners savings.

Mr Sharpe, aided by his neighbour, Rod Sibbald, have recently become the first Tweeddale participants in the Nominated Neighbour Scheme.

Community Beat Officer, PC Vanessa Hamilton said: "This initiative provides elderly and vulnerable residents in our communities with peace of mind when dealing with callers, and will hopefully prevent people becoming victims of this rare, but despicable crime".

For further information on the Nominated Neighbour Scheme can be obtained from PC Hamilton at Peebles Police Station on 01721-720637 or by email at Vanessa.Hamilton@lbp.pnn.police.uk

This article appeared in Peeblesshire News 19 Mar 10

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