A DESPICABLE conman mistaken for a window cleaner stole thousands of pounds from an elderly couple in Chadderton.

At around 1.30pm on February 26 police were called to reports that a man had gone to a house on Broadway in Chadderton and ushered the occupant, a man in his 80s, inside.

Confused about what the man wanted, his wife mistook him to be the window cleaner and handed over £10.

After a short time, the man fled towards Costco on Broadway.

Later on in the day, the victim’s son discovered thousands of pounds had been taken.

Police are now appealing for information to help them catch the culprit.

The man is described as white, of a large build and was wearing black trousers and a shiny ¾ length coat with a belt. He was also wearing a black hat similar to a flat cap.

Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward.

Detective Constable Madaleine Atherton of GMP’s Oldham Borough, said: “Since the incident happened, we’ve been reviewing as much CCTV in the area as we possibly can but unfortunately we haven’t yet been able to identify the person responsible.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw a man matching the description or something suspicious, please get in touch with us as soon as possible.” Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8999 quoting reference number 966 of 26/02/18 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.