POLICE have released an image of man they want to speak to after a pensioner’s garden wall was toppled over in a scam to con money out him.

The Bolton News reported yesterday how Frank Stamford was targeted by a gang of men in an elaborate swindle.

Now police have released an image of a man they want to trace.

Officers were called to a report that a group of four men had pulled down a garden wall at an address on Crescent Avenue on Monday, November 9 2020.

It is believed that one of the men then posed as a member of the council’s health and safety team and tried persuading Mr Stamford to fill in some paperwork before asking how much money the victim had.

Read more: Scam artists foiled by neighbours

The 74-year-old refused to comply and went to inform a neighbour, while the man made off.

Investigating officers have released images of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the incident and have appealed to the public, or the man himself, to get in touch with any information they may have.

Since the incident neighbours have rallied round supporting Mr Stamford to have the boundary wall rebuilt ­— with Hammond’s Handyman Services doing the work at a hugely discounted price.

They raised more than £800 and also organised afternoon tea to show that people care.

PC Catherine Jackson, of GMP’s Bolton division, said: “This was a totally unacceptable act in which an innocent man was targeted, but thankfully was able to see past the offenders’ scheming ways.

“While this incident shows the negative side of society, it is warming to know the response of the local community group has been superb and they are working to raise funds to repair the victim’s wall at no cost to him.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who may have information about this incident, and to try and speak to the man pictured as he may hold important details about this crime.”

Speaking to The Bolton News this week, Mr Stamford said: “The community around here have been absolutely fantastic.

“I’m not concerned or scared especially with the quality of neighbours I have."

Residents said they have heard of other incidents where people have been targeted in a similar way.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 5761 quoting incident number 1315 of 11/11/2020. Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.