A ‘NASTY’ thief who took advantage of a vulnerable blind man has pleaded guilty to theft in court.

George Knowles, 39, from Slaters Way, in Winsford, led a 59-year-old blind man from Bateman Road in Lostock Gralam to a cash machine, where he abused his trust and stole £300 from him, Chester Crown Court heard yesterday.

Knowles and an unknown accomplice called at the blind man’s home on Tuesday, March 7, and offered to trim some trees.

A price was agreed and the two men cut some trees down before taking the Lostock man to a nearby ATM to get money out for the work completed.

Knowles and his accomplice took the man back home then left the area. The man later reported that £300 had been stolen from his bank account.

Insp Dave Snasdell, of Cheshire Police, said: “This was a particular nasty crime against a vulnerable victim.

“The victim handed over his bank card and pin number and money was withdrawn from the machine.

“I would urge all residents to keep a look out for your neighbours and don’t be afraid to ring the police if you think something is acting suspicious or taking advantage of a neighbour.”

Knowles was arrested on March 29 and later charged, before appearing in court on Thursday, March 27.

He pleaded guilty to the theft.

He has now been granted bail by the court and is due to be sentenced on Friday. June 2, at Chester Crown Court.