Burglars steal elderly woman's pension

2:47pm Wednesday 21st May 2008

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A SECURITY company has come to the aid of an elderly woman who fell victim to a distraction burglary.

A young girl cheated her way into 89-year-old Joan Woolford's home in Harlington and stole her pension money.

Joan's son 62-year-old Warwick Prachar, spoke about his mum's ordeal on Virgin Radio and was approached by a family-run security firm who offered to help.

The company, AV 4 My Home, visited Joan's house, in West End Lane, to see what can be done.

Joan said she has been left feeling vulnerable and afraid to open the door after the burglary.

A new video entry system has now been installed by the owner of the business, 34-year-old Bradley Jackson, free of charge. It will enable Joan to see who is at her door before she answers.

Mr Jackson said: "After hearing about the burglary on the radio, I thought there should be something that we could do to help the lady."

On the day of the burglary, Thursday, May 1, Joan's son had just left after a visit, when a knock came at the door.

When she answered a young girl, who Joan described as a teenager, asked to speak to her son.

The girl said she wanted Joan's son to help her get rid of some kittens and then asked for a glass of water.

Joan, said: "When I asked her to come in, I thought the door was closed but I presume she didn't close it properly.

"I think that when we were in the kitchen, someone else who was with the girl came into the house and took my money."

Warwick said: "I had been round to see my mum at about lunch time to see if she was ok. All I can think is they must have seen me leave the house.

"One thing that might have been a mistake is leaving mum's mobility scooter outside the house, which could give the impression she was vulnerable and an easy target."