A GRANDMA-of-three who was targeted by a conman on her doorstep has revealed how her faith has been restored with thanks to officers from Cheshire Police.

June Clough, of Pewterspear Lane, Appleton, had her confidence knocked after she was duped into paying for decorating work that was never completed.

But the mum-of-two was brought to tears when PC Karl Dicken surprised the mum-of-two with the cash to pay for the decorating material following a whip-round at the Cheshire Police main base in Warrington. 

The work will also be completed for free by one of the PCSOs.

The retired Greenalls PA said: “I was totally overwhelmed and I couldn’t believe it. I was just speechless.

“I had lost a little faith in humanity after what happened but this has restored it and helped me to slowly build my confidence back.

“People are so quick to criticise the police but I could not fault them.

“He has somehow managed to make everything seem much better.

“I just want to say thank you. I can’t even put into words what their efforts mean to me.”

Hundreds of pounds was stolen from June, who has lived in the house in Appleton for more than 30 years, after she was approached by a man, who she believed worked for a company she had used previously.

The suspect, who identified himself as Ricky, initially approached June to comment on a loose roof tile which he stated he could fix for her.

She agreed and he was able to fix the tile and, during this time, he mentioned to her that he also worked as a decorator.

As June was in the process of finding a decorator to remove wallpaper and paint two rooms in her house, she agreed to let the suspect carry out the work for £490, which she paid.

He has since failed to return and carry out the work.

Investigations are ongoing into tracing the suspect but PC Dicken hopes June's story will act as a warning to others when dealing with door-to-door salesmen and women.

A spokesman said: "Doorstep selling involves someone selling you goods or services in your home or on your doorstep.

“Many honest businesses use this technique - but so do fraudsters.

"When dealing with any door-to-door salesperson, always remember to check the seller’s identity, take control by asking the questions, don’t sign on the spot and shop around.

"If in any doubt, ask the person to leave or call the Trading Standards Authority."

Anyone with information has been urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.