BRUNSHAW residents are being warned about a bogus workman operating in the area.

Police said a man called at a pensioner's home offering to carry out repairs and maintenance work.

He asked for £500 upfront to buy materials and carried out part of the work, before taking a further cheque for £500 to purchase concrete posts. On his return the work was carried out to a poor standard and he requested a further cheque for £500.

The elderly resident raised the alarm to a family member who contacted PC Janet Cowley who investigated and two cheques were then cancelled.

PC Cowley said: "Our advice is never to give money upfront and if you do want work doing, to always get at least three quotes from reputable companies."

She urged anyone who may also have fallen prey to thieves or who may know the identity of the bogus worker to contact her on 07903 978915 or PCSO Emma Harrison on 07984 316852 or the police station on 0845 1253545.