Man jailed for attempted robbery on elderly Kirkby couple

Merseyside Police have welcomed the sentencing of a man for an attempted robbery on an elderly couple in Kirkby.

On the evening of Sunday 24th December 2017 George Fairclough, who was wearing a mask, appeared at the home of a couple, who were both in their 70s and in poor health, in Millbrook Crescent.

The couple were in bed when they heard banging at the front door. The male occupant went to see who was there. When he opened the door he was confronted by Fairclough who pushed his way into the house and assaulted the man.

Fairclough then went into the bedroom, dragged the female from the bed and assaulted her before making demands for money.

The male occupant fled the house and sought assistance from a neighbour and Fairclough fled the scene.

Fairclough was arrested the following day. He was then recalled to prison for breaching his licence for which he was serving for robbery of an elderly male.

Following a lengthy investigation Fairclough was charged in June 2019 and pleaded guilty to the attempt robbery and assault in December 2019.

The victims both passed away during the investigation.

Fairclough, now aged 28, was today, given a custodial sentence of 13 years and six months together with a further five years on extended licence.

Detective Constable Claire McLoughlin said: “This would have been a terrifying ordeal for the elderly couple concerned. Everyone has a right to feel safe and protected in their own home.

“I am pleased that not only has Fairclough been recalled to prison but he has also been given an extensive prison sentence which means he is no longer able to cause fear on our streets and target elderly and vulnerable people.”