Fraudsters posing as police officers have stolen almost £10,000 from elderly people.

The recent scams in Tunbridge Wells saw two pensioners receive phone calls asking them for large amounts of cash.

A man in his late 60s was contacted by someone on February 28 who was claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police and informed him there had been fraudulent activity on his account.

He spoke to two callers claiming to be from Charing Cross station and was told that as part of the investigation he needed to withdraw £5,000 and hand it to a colleague.

Later that day a woman came to his home and collected the money.

A similar phone call was made to a woman in her 70s, on February 2, from a person claiming to be from Hammersmith police station in London.

This led to the victim being contacted by supposed police colleagues at Scotland Yard, as well as a bank worker.

She and her husband were also tricked into withdrawing £4,250 which was later collected by a woman.

Detective Inspector Dave Higham said: "A police force will never ask a member of the public for their bank details, or money, over the phone.

"If you receive one of these calls end it immediately and wait at least five minutes before using your telephone in order to clear your line from the scammer.

"Unfortunately, those who are targeted are often the most vulnerable, such as elderly people or victims with learning difficulties.

"It is important people know how to spot the signs of a fraudulent phone call so their finances are not put at risk and I would encourage friends, neighbours and family members to help protect those who may be particularly at risk from these types of scams."

Neighbours and relatives are being urged to be on guard against criminals targeting pensioners by phone and tricking them into handing over large sums of cash.

If you are not confident a person claiming to be a police officer is genuine, ask to take their details and then end the call. Wait for at least five minutes for the call to clear and then contact 101, or 999 in an emergency. A handler will be able to verify it.

You can also report suspicious activity online by clicking here or to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.