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June 10 2011
A woman tricked her way into the home of an 83-year-old pensioner after telling her she had won a teddy bear in a raffle.

The woman called at a home on Peel Hall Road at about 6.15pm on June 4 and told the pensioner she had won a raffle at the Conservative club.

The woman told the victim she needed to sign for the prize, a teddy bear, so the householder went to look for a pen.

The offender followed her in and walked around the house. The pensioner was suspicious so followed her around before she left empty handed.

It is believed she visited a number of neighbours but did not get into any other homes.

No raffle has taken place at the local conservative club.

The woman is described as white, in her late 20s, 5ft 4in tall, of slim build and was wearing a mini skirt and beige boots and carrying a large beige teddy bear.

Police Constable Claire Boardman, of the West Didsbury Volume Crime Team, said: "We know there was no such raffle and therefore believe this was a scam to try and gain access into the victim's home.

"While she was successful in that respect thanks to the pensioner's vigilance nothing was taken and I would reiterate how important it is you do not let strangers into your home.

"I am sure people would remember seeing or being approached by someone carrying a large teddy and I am keen to hear from anyone who might be able to help me identify this woman."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8009, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.