A man has been charged with trying to con his alleged victim out of more than £30,000 by carrying out unnecessary and overpriced building work.

James Dennard, 25, of Darenth Wood Road, Dartford, is alleged to have committed the offence between Wednesday, September 13, and Saturday December 2, at a home in Princes Road, Dartford.

Officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate arrested and charged James Dennard with fraud by false representation.

He is due to appear before Medway Magistrates Court on Tuesday, January 16.

Detective Sergeant Marc Cananur, of the Serious Economic Crime Unit, said: “Our officers have been working closely with Trading Standards and other partners to investigate fraud, safeguard victims, and prevent residents from falling foul to building scams.

“Please beware of anyone asking for money upfront for any service unless it is a genuine company that you have selected, and never deal with any unexpected doorstep callers offering work on your home or garden.”