A CONMAN who tried to get a Helensburgh pensioner to hand over her bank card and PIN has been detained in custody after he failed to turn up to appointments with social workers.

John Bechara claimed to a 78-year-old woman living in Old Luss Road that he was a courier who had been sent to collect the information by the Bank of Scotland.

Bechara, of Annandale Street in the Govanhill area of Glasgow, appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on February 9 for sentencing after admitting carrying out the attempted fraud on September 8 and 9, 2015.

Bechara, 26, also admitted failing to appear at a hearing at the same court on August 30 last year.

But his solicitor told the court her client had failed to turn up to meet social workers for a background report on both January 24 and February 1.

She said: “He received a letter from social workers saying he had to attend an appointment on January 24, then a second letter the next day saying he had to attend an appointment on February 1.

“His understanding was that he had to attend on February 1. He says that on that day he was on his way to the appointment but realised he had forgotten to bring documents confirming his income.

“He went back to his house to get them but realised he was going to be late. The social work department said they couldn't put the appointment back or offer him another appointment.

“He wishes to apologise to the court for the delays to the social work team.

"He understands the seriousness of this matter and he has had it explained to him that if he doesn't understand the content of any letters he should contact my office and we will make it very clear.

“I've made it very clear to him he may only be given one more chance to attend an appointment. He knows what the alternative will be if he doesn't.”

But Sheriff Simon Pender told Bechara: “There's nothing complicated or difficult about these letters. You have been given two opportunities to attend, and have failed to attend.

"You have failed to appear here on two occasions. Therefore I am going to revoke your bail and remand you in custody.”

The background reports previously ordered will be prepared while Bechara is in custody; he will be brought back to court for sentencing on March 2.

Inspector Coleen Wylie from Helensburgh police office said: “If you are suspicious at all about any correspondence, either by phone, text, email or calling to your home, do not engage, and never divulge any private information.”

Crime prevention advice is available on the Keep Safe page of Police Scotland’s website or you can call your local police office for assistance by dialling 101.