A fraudster who used a dead squirrel as a prop to trick residents into thinking they needed roof repairs has been jailed.

George Johnston would use the rodent to scam unsuspecting people in Tunbridge Wells into thinking they had pest infestations in their homes.

Victims reported that the 34-year-old, previously of Sandhurst Road in the town, would produce the squirrel as evidence of the problem before demanding cash to clear the infestation and make repairs to properties.

He was arrested on May 24 after police received a number of reports about suspicious activity in Tunbridge Wells.

Offences were reported between February and May this year, in areas including Sandhurst Road and Ferndale.

Johnston appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates Court yesterday, where he pleaded guilty to four offences of fraud by false representation.

He was sentenced to 360 days in prison, and was ordered to pay £2,330 compensation to his victims.

PC Katie Saunders said: "Johnston targeted the elderly and vulnerable and then tricked his victims into paying for work they didn’t need.

"While he is now behind bars, communities will be protected from his scams and he should consider the impact these crimes have had on the people who thought he was an honest tradesman.

"I would like to thanks the victims, who helped Kent Police throughout the investigation and court process."