Bogus callers target pensioners

Police are appealing for information after two bogus callers target a pensioner.

Two males have targeted an 84 year old woman, who has yet to be named, in an attempt to make fast, easy cash by claiming to be officers from the “Water Board.”

The suspected bogus callers arrived at the elderly woman’s address in Eldon Street on Sunday, entering her home and “poking a stick at the water mains” before demanding £200 pounds for their services.

The two men, said to be between 25-30, then made off empty handed after the occupant refused to pay. The incident was said to have happened between 12pm-2pm on the Sunday afternoon and police have asked any witnesses to come forward with any information they may have that can assist the investigation.

A description of the fraudsters has also been provided, one of the callers said to be around 5”4 inches tall and the other 5”8. Both are slim, white males with local accents. Police have asked anyone with information on the incident, or may recognise these descriptions to contact them on 03456 043 043.

Chief Inspector Graham Watson has said “We are carrying out extensive enquiries to find who’s responsible for this incident. I would urge people to always air on the side of caution when answering the door to someone they’re not expecting.”

“Anyone claiming to be an official should have I.D. including a photo of the caller and information on the company they work for.”

“This should always be checked by people before allowing them access to their home. Genuine callers will not mind coming back as you check their credentials.”

Annual Houghton firework display turns out to be a big success

Hetton Lyons Cricket Club played host to a memorable bonfire night as they entertained an enthusiastic crowd with a great variety of colourful fireworks.

A good number came out to help community groups raise money and of course, enjoy the excitement of bonfire night.

Gates opened at 6pm, with the show starting at seven and the early start seemed to attract plenty of families with very excited young children to come along.

Bryan Walker, local resident of Houghton said: “I had a great night. My wife and I took our 10 year old son and he loved every minute. The turnout was outstanding and I think that was due to the cheap prices and warm atmosphere.”

The firework display was not the only attraction to the public of Houghton, with locals creating food and drink stalls along with others using the opportunity to advertise their respected causes.

However, the main attraction remained the quality of the display and locals were not left disappointed.

Ryan Allman, resident of Durham said: “I travel up from Durham every year to come to this display. This is my fifth consecutive bonfire night in Houghton and without doubt the best yet. The fireworks were brilliant and everybody seemed to enjoy themselves.”

Mr Allman’s opinion seems to be a sentiment shared with the organisers of the event. The official website said: “Our most successful fireworks event yet, a big thanks to all those who helped out and of course all those that attended!”

Bonfire night across the North East turned out to be a very safe evening with Fire-fighters called out to 418 bonfires throughout Friday and Saturday, a massive 23% down on 2010.

This fact seems to shows that families took notice of call from Fire-fighters to attend public displays instead of trying to light their own fires.

Houghton Minis Victorious

Houghton under 11’s travelled to Ryton to take part in this season’s County Sevens Championship.

After a tough draw in the group stages, Houghton managed to qualify for the final following some well fought out wins against Sunderland and Washington.

Last years Player of the Season, Ciaran Render, impressed the coaches guiding them to the try-line on four occasions.

In the final against current championship holders Newcastle, Houghton went down a try but fought hard in the last ten minutes, leaving the score 15-5 and Houghton taking the trophy.