Published: Monday, 8th June, 2009 4:00pm

Conmen trick elderly man

Comments (0) | Print | Email

POLICE in Helensburgh are renewing their appeal to the public to help snare bogus workmen who are preying on vulnerable pensioners.

An 88-year-old man paid a three figure sum to two men who claimed to be roofing contractors for work that was never done on the morning of June 1 in Lawrence Avenue.

The scam comes days before a similar incident in Dumbarton last Friday.

Commenting on the recent offences, Chief Inspector David Gray said: 'Police are currently investigating two bogus workman type crimes, one in Helensburgh in February and the most recent in Dumbarton on Friday June 5.

'I would urge all homeowners to be particularly vigilant when dealing with doorstep callers offering to carry out work.

'I"d emphasise that legitimate tradesmen should be in possession of company identification and will not mind if you check their ID or that of their company.'

He added: 'The advice of the police is never be pressurised and if you have any doubts, just say no.'

Bogus workmen prey on the most vulberable members of the community, and often leave their victimes feeling vulnerable and helplesss.

The first suspect is described as a brown haired white male, around 20 years old, 5ft 10in and with a "West of Scotland" accent. He was reported to have been wearing a hooped polo style shirt, jeans and trainers.

The second suspect is described as a white male, around 40 years of age, stocky with very short hair. He was reportedly wearing light coloured trousers and t-shirt. The men may have been driving a white van.

If you can help identify these men please contact CID at Dumbarton Police Station on 01389 822000.