A masked man wielding a crowbar tried to force his way into a terrified pensioner's home

Police believe the masked man is a debt collector who got the wrong address.

Det Sgt Roger Napier, of Colchester police, said: "He must be one of the most inept debt collectors ever."

The elderly man answered the door of his home in Tippett Close, Greenstead, Colchester, at about 10pm yesterday

He kept the door chain on and as he opened the door, the masked man took a swipe at the chain with the crowbar.

It is the second incident of its kind in the same road.

Earlier an elderly couple were left terrified following a similar late-night visit on Wednesday.

Det Sgt Napier said: "We think it is someone who is trying to collect a debt and getting the wrong address."

The masked man was described as 6ft tall, dressed in dark clothing. He was wearing a balaclava.

Anyone with information is asked to call Colchester police on 01206 762212.

Published Friday August 9, 2002

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