AN ELDERLY couple almost lost £5,000 this week in an elaborate house improvement scam.

And police are now warning residents not to sign any agreements with strangers who knock on your door.

A company from outside the area, rang the couple up, offering to carry out a free damp course survey with no obligation.

After an inspection, the Halton View couple, in their late 70's, were astonished to discover their house needed urgent work, costing £5,000.

A man from the company offered to take the old woman to the bank to withdraw the money.

Workmen turned up and immediately started work.

Fortunately, the TSB became suspicious as the elderly woman was about to withdraw such a large sum of money and alerted the police.

The couple's daughter this week praised the TSB Lloyd bank for being so vigilant.

She said: "I am grateful to the bank for being so alert."

She immediately stopped the work and arranged an independent second opinion.

Colin Lomax of Halton Dampcoursing and Timber specialists, with 29 years experience, examined the house.

Mr Lomax told the World: "There is no sign of damp in this house.

"If this work did need to be done it would cost around £200.

"It has shocked me that someone could do this to an elderly couple. I would advise people to make sure they always get a second opinion from a local reputable company."

A spokesman for Widnes police this week warned all residents, particularly pensioners, to be on their guard.

He said: "Don't sign anything on the doorstep, always check over a contract with someone else.

"Be very very dubious if someone offers to run you to the bank to withdraw money.

"If you are ever in any doubt, close the door and call the police."

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