Police have arrested a suspected rogue trader after suspicious activity was reported at a Maidstone bank.

Officers were called to Week Street yesterday lunch time after a pensioner arrived at a bank to withdraw a large amount of cash from his account.

On arrival, police arrested a 29-year-old man from Northfleet on suspicion of theft and fraud.

A handwritten invoice and a bank card were also seized.

Chief inspector Mark Hedges said: "‘While we are investigating this incident, I would like to remind people how they can stay safer in their homes.

"Avoid using tradespeople who call at your house unexpectedly and offer to complete work or repairs.

"If you have any doubts about whether a caller to your home is genuine, ask them to leave and come back at a time convenient to you and when you've had a chance to ask someone to be with you.

"Before allowing any work to be carried out, it is best to obtain a quote or get a second quote from a recognised firm.

"Do not pay anyone for work before it is carried out, and certainly never go to the bank to draw out cash if a lift is offered by the people who knock on the door.

"Anybody who is pestered by unwanted cold callers should advise them that contact will be made with Trading Standards and if necessary the police."

The suspect has since been released under investigation.