Fareham Police Hunt 'Rogue Trader'

Police say the builder drove an elderly man to a cash point to get £140 - then left the 89-year-old to walk the two miles home.

Police are issuing a warning to homeowners after an elderly couple reported a deception incident at their home in Redlands Lane, Fareham.

The 89-year-old couple received a call at their door at around 10.30am on Tuesday, December 20 from a man stating he was doing some work on a neighbours chimney stack and had also done some work to their guttering. He asked for £140 for the work.

The man refused to accept a cheque and drove the homeowner to a cash point to withdraw the money, leaving him to walk the two miles home.

It is not clear whether any work to the guttering was completed.

The man is described as:

· White
· In his 40s
· Medium build
· Approximately 5ft 6ins tall
· Gap between his front teeth
· Wearing a black coat and possibly driving a black vehicle

DC Neil Harrison said: “Was anyone in the area at the time and remember seeing this man? Can you help us identify him? Legitimate workmen would not expect cash without prior warning. Please do not be intimidated into being taken to a cash point or paying for work without being happy that the work has been completed and is the right price. Do not hesitate to contact the police if you are unsure or suspicious.”

Anyone with information about this incident should contact DC Harrison at Fareham police station on 101. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling theCrimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.