Worried residents are calling on the police to carry out extra patrols on their road after a burglary at an elderly woman’s home.
Three men gained entry to the 90-year-old’s home on Knowlwood Road, Shade, Todmorden, last Wednesday, May 8.
When they were disturbed by a neighbour, it is alleged they threatened him with an aerosol.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “Residents up here are really worried. This happened in broad daylight.
“We would like a lot more police presence, carrying out more patrols to reassure us.”
Police have issued two e-fit images, pictured right, of people they want to speak to in connection with the incident and are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Chief Inspector Kate Jowett, of Calderdale Police, said: “There was a burglary on May 8 on Knowlwood Road.
“The suspects gained entry through the front door.
“Seeing the front door open a member of the public went to see what was happening, at which point three men came down the stairs.
“It is alleged that one of them then threatened to spray the person with an aerosol.
“Officers are today releasing two e-fits of people they want to speak to in connection with the incident.
“Officers have been carrying out enquiries throughout the local community to see if there have been any other similar offences.
“No other burglaries using this particular tactic have been reported in Calderdale previously and there have been no other reported burglaries on Knowlwood Road in recent months.
“We would always encourage any victims of burglary to come forward and report the crime to the police.”
Chf Insp Jowett urged all home-owners to keep their windows and doors locked and to be cautious when letting uninvited callers into the house.
“We take all incidents of burglary extremely seriously,” she said.
“Unfortunately burglars do sometimes target elderly or vulnerable residents and we regularly encourage friends, relatives and neighbours to keep a watchful eye out for anyone acting suspiciously.
“In addition to this we would urge all residents to always keep their windows and doors locked and be cautious when letting any uninvited callers into the house.
“Callers claiming to represent an organisation such as a utility company should always be able to show identification.
“I would always urge people answering the door to ask to see this and if in doubt not let people in.
“Officers are on regular patrols in the upper valley area and across Calderdale, keeping an eye out for suspicious activity and speaking to residents to offer crime prevention advice.”
Anybody who witnessed the incident or has information about it is asked to contact the police via 101.