Appeal for dashcam footage after elderly targeted in two aggravated burglaries in Leyland and Chorley

The first victim was visited by four men who said they were workmen who wanted to carry out work on his property in Balshaw Crescent at around 8am today (January 22).

When he declined their offer and closed the door, the men reportedly broke into the home before hitting the homeowner in the head with a metal bar.

Police said he has since made a full recovery.

Approximately two hours later, at around 9.05am, another elderly victim was made to hand over money to an offender in Eaves Lane, Chorley.

Officers are now urging anyone with dashcam footage taken on Balshaw Road, Leyland, or Eaves Lane, Chorley, between 7am and 10am on January 22 to come forward.

They added they are particularly keen to see footage which captures an orange Honda Jazz in the area.

PC Rebecca Pugh, of Chorley Police, said: "Both of these incidents targeted elderly people, and in both cases left the victims shaken and scared.

"At this time we are treating them as linked and our investigations are very much ongoing.

"You may remember that we appealed for information immediately after the incidents, and we would like to thank all those who got in touch with us. We are now asking people to check any dashcam footage taken during the times given above, and if they have anything saved to please get in touch with us by emailing [email protected]."

Officers have confirmed Mark McGranaghan, 47, of Wordsworth Street, Burnley; Anthony Prosser, 50, of Lowerhouse Lane, Burnley; Kevin Cragg, 44, of Rosegrove Lane, Burnley and James McCool, 39, of Bleasdale Court, Longridge have been charged with robbery in connection with the Leyland incident.

McGranaghan was also charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

Chorley, Cragg, Prosser and McCool have been charged with fraud in connection with the Chorley incident.

They were all remanded into custody after appearing at Preston Magistrates’ Court on January 25.

PC Pugh added: "At the moment, the elderly and vulnerable are home more and so are easy targets for criminals.

"We would ask that you please check-in with elderly neighbours, family members and friends so they are not completely isolated."

If you have any information about the incidents, including dashcam footage, email [email protected] or call 101, quoting log number 223 of January 22.

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