A man posing as a police officer has tricked an elderly couple into handing over a large amount of cash.

The couple, from Ditton, were phoned by a man claiming to be from the police.

He told them they had been targeted by money launderers and provided a fake reference number to gain their trust.

The conman then asked them to withdraw the money as evidence before a courier visited their home to collect the funds at about 3pm on Tuesday, August 12

The victims have since helped police produce an efit of the man. He is described as being of mixed race, about 5ft 9in and with short dark hair.

He was wearing black trousers, a black top and yellow fluorescent jacket.

DC Hayley Campbell said: "The offenders in this case used fake police reference numbers to earn the trust of a vulnerable couple who did not deserve to be targeted in this cowardly fashion.

"We are reminding everyone to be on their guard against those who may attempt to deceive you.

"Should somebody contact you claiming to be from Kent Police and you are not confident they are genuine, call us for verification. No true officers will mind if you do this."

Anyone with information is asked to phone DC Campbell on 01732 379352, quoting reference SI/YY/003619/14, or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.