BOGUS workmen have been targeting elderly and vulnerable people in Worcestershire.

Police have warned people to be alert after bogus handymen gained access to their victims’ homes on false pretences by pretending to be tradesmen.

Two incidents took place on Monday (July 16).

The first happened at about 10am when a 101 year old woman living in Pirton, Worcestershire, was targeted by two crooks, who on the pretence of carrying out some hedge-trimming work, managed to steal £250.

It is thought that, at 10.30am, the same men then visited the address of a vulnerable 52-year-old lady in Nogains, Pershore, where they again pretended to be tradesmen to gain access to the address.

It is unclear at this stage whether anything was stolen.

The men were described as being covered in tattoos and arriving in a white van.

Detective Inspector Dave Knight said: “Clearly these offenders have a completely different moral compass to the rest of society and I would love an opportunity to get these individuals into the criminal justice system.

"South Worcestershire Police will be working hard to bring these offenders to justice.

“Police will be in both areas over the next few days seeking witnesses, and CCTV opportunities.

“I would ask that anyone with elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends or neighbours keep a vigilant eye for any criminal activity and please contact police in relation to anything that appears to be suspicious.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact West Mercia Police, on 101, quoting incident number 337-S (Pirton incident) or 298S-S (Nogains).

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via Crimestoppers-uk.org.