These guys make me
Always tell your customers never to give the money to someone else.
http://www.newsguardian.co.uk/latest-news/Thieves-pose-as-window-cleaners.3681709.jpThieves pose as window cleaners
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View GalleryBy LIAM THOMPSON
THIEVES posing as window cleaners are believed to have stolen more than £500 from residents in Whitley Bay.
Alan Fairbairn, from Becks Window Cleaning, has had his earnings stolen after a young male, posing as a window cleaner, has been taking money from residents in West Monkseaton and the Crescent area of the town.
Mr Fairbairn said the thefts may have been carried out by a group who have also been collecting window cleaners' money further afield in Jesmond and Gosforth.
"The problem started about six weeks ago, I caught the lad but I couldn't prove where he'd got the money from so I had to let him go."
"By the time police got there he'd gone.
"I've followed him round the estate and he's trying it all over Whitley Bay.
"I would say he's taken money from at least 20 of my clients."
Mr Fairbairn has been talking to other window cleaners who have also been affected.
He believes the culprit could have taken money from more than 100 homes with the usual amount being £5.
Thefts occurred in Thorntree, Sandringham and Marina Drive in West Monkseaton and The Crescent in Whitley Bay.
"There might be a group of them going round," added Mr Fairbairn.
"They have to have had experience in the window cleaning business.
"If anyone is unsure about people asking for money at their door don't pay.
"Phone up your window cleaning company first to double check."
Chief Inspector Vince Stubbs, from North Tyneside Area Command: "Any report of bogus callers is taken seriously and we are keen to hear from anyone who has been affected.
"We will take positive action against anyone found committing this crime.
"We would urge residents to be vigilant at all times and ensure they check the identity of anyone calling at their home who is unexpected.
"Anyone with suspicions about any caller to their home should contact police on 08456 043043."
