POLICE have issued a warning to residents following a burglary in Ellesmere Port.

At around 12.15pm on Wednesday of last week officers were called to an address near Whitby Road after reports that an elderly man had been the victim.

The offender forced his way past the 77-year-old victim at the back door, searched part of the house and made off with a quantity of cash.

Now police are warning other residents to be on their guard.

Inspector Richard Rees, of Ellesmere Port and Neston Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “This a variation on the usual distraction or bogus caller type of doorstep crime. The culprit used force to get past the elderly home owner and then helped himself to money.

“This is a particular despicable act in which the offender has preyed on an elderly and vulnerable member of society.

“We will do everything within our power to identify and bring the offender to justice and will be stepping up patrols in the area to reassure local residents and take steps towards preventing further incidents.”

The burglar is described as white and thin with dark hair and a pointed nose. It is also believed that he spoke with an Irish accent.

Officers at Ellesmere Port would like to hear from anyone with any information in relation to this incident or anyone with information about people acting suspiciously in the area. To pass on information ring Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.