NEW figures have revealed that almost 200 elderly people were targeted last year by cowards who tricked their way into their homes and stole their belongings.

Police say the crimes were so upsetting some of the men and women suffered heart attacks and strokes and are now urging everyone to be extra vigilant.

Officers noticed a rise in bogus official-type incidents last autumn and are concerned that unless people take precautions there could be more victims again this year.

Police have already been alerted to new cases which have taken place in the past two weeks.

Some of the criminals pose as bogus officials, pretending to work for the "gas board" or "water board".

Others use more devious methods, such as telling the householder there has been a road accident and asking if they can use their telephone.

The north of the town has been worst hit in the past year with 104 reports coming in from the area, which includes Halliwell, Horwich, Smithills and Westhoughton. A total of 80 people were targeted in the south.

Sgt Jim Winwood, based at Astley Bridge police station, said a number of similar incidents had been reported in the past week and it was important to remind elderly people to be careful before letting someone into their home.

He said: "The average victim is in their late 70s. The majority are female with most of them living on their own.

"This crime can have such a devastating effect on its victims that some have suffered heart attacks, strokes and worsened mental health."

He added: "It is important elderly people check id cards and if they are not happy, check with the company they claim to be from.

"Also, neighbours should keep their eyes open and if they suspect something is going on call the police."

In the past weeks there have been reports of bogus officials operating in the Halliwell and Sharples areas.

One man claiming to be from the "water board" asked a woman who lives on Knowsley Road, Sharples, to turn off her supply and then stole the 80-year-old's purse.

Invited

A 74-year-old, from Whitchurch Gardens, Halliwell, had more than £100 stolen from her home when a man called who pretended to know her and said he had been invited around.

The BEN has featured the tricks of other criminals in the past. John Berry, aged 79, of Thornbank North, Deane, could not pull a parcel through his letter box and when he opened his door to grab it from the other side a young man and a girl punched and kicked him to the ground.

Mr Berry, a former soldier, suffered cuts and bruises. He said: ""They are cowards and lunatics. When I was younger I could have taken them on. If I had it my way I'd put them up against a wall and shoot them."

Officers in Bolton advise elderly people to not let anyone into their homes unless they are positive they are who they claim to be.

If you are suspicious, turn them away and call the police immediately on 0161 872 5050, giving them a good description and a registration number if they are in a car.