Concerns have been raised after a suspicious cold caller knocked on a pensioner’s door in Keady to congratulate her on being nominated to run the Belfast Marathon.
The man, who wore an indistinguishable lanyard, knocked on the door in the Crossmore Green area of the town before scribbling a note on a piece of paper and placing it back in his pocket.
When the 80-year-old woman answered the door, the man congratulated her on being nominated to run the Belfast Marathon as “all your neighbours have been saying you’re the one for the job – are you up for it?”
The caller was then interrupted by the woman’s daughter who voiced her disapproval over the Ring doorbell, stating her mother was not interested.
He thanked them both before going on his way, however, he was heard telling an accomplice, “she has one of those ring doorbells”.
SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon said police have been notified of the peculiar approach.
“We don’t know what his motive was but it’s suspicious,” he said.
“I’ve spoken to the team at Belfast City Marathon and they don’t engage in this door to door activity. They were concerned and annoyed at this approach.
“This has been reported to police and an investigation has been launched.
“Whatever this young man was up to, it wasn’t right! His motives are questionable to say the least. Our elder relatives shouldn’t have to live in fear.
“Please don’t answer the door to strangers and please preach this message to family, friends and neighbours too.
If you got a call from this guy or his mate, please let me know. If you see him or his mate in your area, please get in touch or phone the police as soon as possible.”
