Police have launched an appeal after an elderly man was scammed out of money by a bogus caller.

The Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells resident was tricked into handing over £50 to a man purporting to be a worker from the borough council (TWBC).

Yesterday, TWBC issued a warning to residents about this incident, which happened around 3.15pm on Tuesday.

The man said he was carrying out work to a tree in the neighbouring garden, and the roots had spread to the elderly man's property.

He asked for £300, but agreed to take £50. No work was carried out.

The suspect is described as being a white man of stocky build, aged in his 30s, about 6ft and wearing a yellow high-visibility jacket.

Detective Sergeant Garry Cook said: "While most people who call at our homes are genuine, unfortunately there are some who lie about their identity in order to commit an offence.

"Please be wary about handing cash over to strangers or welcoming them into your property if there is any doubt as to who they are.

"Remember that people from the council or utility companies rarely visit without appointments, and that if there is a real emergency then police and firefighters are likely to be there too.

"If you are not expecting them and they do not have an ID, do not let them in."

Officers are continuing to make inquiries into the incident, and ask anyone with information to call 01622 604100 quoting reference 10-0744.

Alternatively call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.