AN elderly Northwich man has been targeted in an attempted distraction burglary.

Around 3.30pm on Wednesday, November 14, the victim was unloading shopping at the back of his Penrhyn Road house when he was approached by a man.

The stranger told the victim he was in the area fixing fences for the council, but as they talked a second man entered the house.

While searching the premises, he was confronted by the victim's daughter who was in an upstairs bedroom. He then fled empty-handed.

Both of the men drove away from the scene in a dark red or maroon car. The first man is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall and between 30 and 38 years old. He had a medium to broad build, a pale face and black hair.

The man who entered the property was also white. He spoke with an Irish accent and is described as around 5ft 6ins tall and between 40 and 45 years old. He had an average build and was wearing a beige baseball cap and blue jeans.

Police officers are urging residents to stay vigilant, after another elderly man was recently targeted by bogus callers at his home.

DC Chris Palmer said: “Thankfully on this occasion the offenders were disturbed before they managed to steal anything.

“However, had it not been for the victim’s daughter the outcome could have been very different and we are committed to doing all that we can to trace the offenders.

“Enquiries are ongoing and I urge anyone who recognises the descriptions of the men and thinks they may know their identities or has any information in relation to the incident to contact the team here in Northwich.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents to be vigilant of anyone who comes to their door offering to carry out work and to urge people to report any suspicious activity to us immediately on 101.”

Anyone with information in relation to the incident should call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 241236.

Information can also be reported online here or anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.