Woman, 86, conned out of life savings receives Christmas hamper from police

23/12/2023

Inspector Hillyard, PCSO Spruce and PCSO Pritchard and firefighters distribute hampers to victims of crime i(Image: Cheshire Police)/i

Inspector Hillyard, PCSO Spruce and PCSO Pritchard and firefighters distribute hampers to victims of crime (Image: Cheshire Police) AN 86-year-old woman conned out of her life savings was among victims of crime receiving special gifts. Cheshire Police officers teamed up with partner agencies to bring some festive cheer to Warrington residents.

The town’s Neighbourhood Team delivered Christmas hampers to residents nominated after sadly being victims of crime or have suffered unfortunate personal circumstances. PCSO Dean co-ordinated the list following nominations from local officers. Irene Bird, 80, who spends her time knitting hats for neonatal babies was one of the recipients.

Warrington Guardian: PCSO Pritchard pulls a cracker with Irene Bird, who knits clothing for the neonatal unit

PCSO Pritchard pulls a cracker with Irene Bird, who knits clothing for the neonatal unit (Image: Cheshire Police) A couple in their 80s defrauded out of GBP3,000 in a banking scam also received a hamper. And an elderly victim of crime who is a full-time carer for her partner who has dementia was presented with a gift.

Warrington Guardian: Lilian Cartlidge received a hamper

Lilian Cartlidge received a hamper (Image: Cheshire Police) Inspector Lee Hillyard said: “While Christmas is a merry time of year for many, it can be very isolating for some, especially those who are particularly vulnerable. “We’ve been working with a number of partner agencies to show Warrington residents that the community really does care.

“We hope this small token will help brighten up their day in the run-up to Christmas and highlight how we are all working together to try and put a smile on people’s faces. “I would like to thank staff at Tesco, Morrisons and Bents for donating the hampers, as well as our colleagues at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service for supporting this initiative. “The nominated residents have been given a home safety check to help keep them safe over the festive period.

“We know being a victim of crime can have a significant impact on somebody’s life, therefore it is vital that we ensure they feel safe in their homes and have the support of officers through what can be a difficult time.

“We hope receiving the Christmas hampers brought festive cheer and we hope they have a happy Christmas and New Year.”