POLICE in North Ayrshire are appealing for witnesses and are warning the public to be on their guard after a 91-year-old woman was robbed in her home in Dalry.

Around 10am on Saturday, February 6, the 91-year-old woman was within her home in James Street in Dalry, when she answered the door to two men claiming to be from a water company who asked to carry out some checks in her home. 

She allowed the men entry to the house and they left a short time later with her purse containing bank cards. It is understood that PIN codes for the cards were contained within the purse, resulting in a four-figure sum of money being withdrawn from her accounts.

The suspects are described as white, around 5ft 8” in height and both with brown hair. The first suspect was described of being slim build while the second is described as having a medium build. The first suspect who is described as slim was also wearing a dark coloured body warmer and a lanyard at the time of the incident.

Detective Constable Finn Rankin of Saltcoats Police Office said today:

“These are despicable individuals who have preyed on a vulnerable woman.  It is totally unacceptable to leave anyone feeling unsafe in their own home.

“This crime was reported to us on Monday, February 8. There may be other people in the North Ayrshire area who have been approached by these men who haven’t yet come forward to police.  If you have had someone at your door recently that you were unsure of, or if an elderly relative has informed you of an incident, I would like to hear from you.”

Anyone who can assist with this police investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland officers at Saltcoats on 101.  Alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

Police Scotland would remind anyone, and particularly the elderly members of our communities that if anyone comes to your door, always ask for identification.  Always close and lock your door while you contact the company in order to check that they are genuine, before allowing anyone access to your home.  If in doubt - contact the police. Always use a door chain to ensure they cannot gain entry until you are satisfied with their identity.