POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man in his 80s was victim to bogus callers.

Two men attended the home of an 85-year-old man in Galashiels on Tuesday, September 15, offering to carry out a free building inspection.

They have then claimed he had damage to his roof and charged him a four-figure sum for repairs.

After receiving this money, they claimed further work needed to be carried out and returned the next day (Wednesday) requesting a further four-figure sum. A third man attended and drove the victim to a bank where he withdrew the money.

The vehicle used, a white Transit-type work van with ladders on the roof, was temporarily parked in Iceland's car park.

The three claimed they would return on the Friday to carry out the work, but returned on the following Tuesday (September 22) and quoted a four-figure sum for further work which they claimed was required, before driving him to the bank.

The first suspect is described as a white man, 5ft 7inches tall, aged 35 to 40. He had a stocky build, short fair hair and possibly a northern England accent.

The second suspect is described as a white man, 5ft 9inches tall, in his late 30s. He had a stocky build, short dark hair with short side burns, and a round face. He was wearing a dark grey/blue jacket.

The third suspect is described as a white man in his early 30s, with dark hair.

Inspector Mike Bennett said: "Crimes of this nature, which typically target and exploit elderly and vulnerable people, cause shock and outrage within our communities.

"This behaviour will not be tolerated and we will pursue all lines of enquiry in our efforts to trace the perpetrators.

"We are appealing for the public's help in identifying the suspects, as well as urging the people to be vigilant and advise their elderly friends and neighbours to be vigilant also.

"Be very wary about letting someone into your home that you do not know or are not expecting. Always ask for identification, as legitimate workmen will be happy to provide you with this. If you are unsure of a caller, or feel threatened or unsafe, ask them to leave and contact a trusted friend, relative or police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111