A bogus tradesman attempted to scam a home-owner by claiming to work for a solar panel company.

Police are warning Maidstone residents to be vigilant after a man tried to enter a Coxheath property, making claims the recent storms may have caused damage.

The man called at the address, near Heath Road, on Monday afternoon and requested entry.

The home-owner suspected it was a scam and refused to let him in.

He contacted his solar panel company, who confirmed they had not sent anyone.

Officers attended the area and carried out a search, but were unable to locate the suspect’s vehicle, described as a large white van, without any signwriting or ladders.

Detective Inspector Richard O’Toole said: "The motives of this man remain unclear, but it is possible this was an attempted distraction burglary.

"The intended victim did the right thing in refusing entry to his home and contacting the police.

"We are urging anyone else who may have been visited by this person to contact us and are also reminding relatives and neighbours, of elderly and vulnerable people, to please keep an eye out for anything suspicious."

You can report suspicious behaviour by calling 101 or through the online portal on the Kent Police website.