Watch stolen by 'antique dealer'

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A WATCH worth thousands of pounds was stolen by a thief claiming to be an antique dealer.

The man in his 70s called at a property in Edgioake Lane, Astwood Bank, asking if the homeowners had any antiques or other items to sell.

They showed him around and he bought a number of unwanted items, promising he would return later in the day to buy and collect some other pieces. When he did not return they became suspicious and realised a Rolex Tudor watch had been stolen. It happened between 11.30am and 12.30pm on Tuesday, September 25.

Detectives believe the man may have called at other homes in Redditch and elsewhere in Worcestershire, especially Malvern, and Bromyard in Herefordshire.

He may also have been putting yellow leaflets through people's letterboxes advertising for any antiques or other old property that may be available to buy.

The caller was white, between 65 and 80, 5ft 5in tall, of medium build and had short, light hair. He was driving a white car-derived van.

Det Con Jamie Simon said: "I believe this man may have called at other houses and I would like to know if local people have had him call at their home, whether they dealt with him or not.

"It is possible if they did let him into their home, he may have actually stolen something from them and they haven't realised it yet."

Anyone with any information should call DC Simon on 101, quoting reference number 167-N-250912, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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