A doorstep fraudster swiped the wallet of an elderly man after asking to use his toilet.

The bogus caller knocked at the door of the OAP – who is his 80s – at 11.30am on Wednesday, claiming he needed his guttering cleared.

The pensioner let him into his home in Hillview Road, Canterbury, and gave him a glass of water before letting him use his loo.

The rogue trader then made his excuses and left, claiming he would be back shortly.

But he never returned, and the pensioner soon realised his wallet – containing bank cards and cash – had been taken.

The suspect is described as white, 5ft 6ins tall, aged in his early 20s and with light brown short hair. He was wearing a grey anorak and grey trousers.

DC Kentra Gamble said: “We are appealing to anyone who might have been in the area at the time and seen anything suspicious to get in touch by contacting Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference number ZY/17397/15.

“As the weather warms up we want to remind people to be alert to any potential rogue traders.

“Many people who call at your home will be genuine but if you have any doubts, ask them to leave and come back at a time convenient to you when you have had a chance to ask someone to be with you.”

For more advice on staying safe, visit www.kent.police.uk.