The police have issued a warning after a pensioner was almost scammed out of £20,000.

The man, from Rishton, was contacted by scammers falsely claiming to be from a bank's fraud investigation team.

They asked him to transfer £10,000 into one of their bank accounts and then withdraw a further £8,000 from his bank account.

The fraudsters said they were going to send a man over to collect the money and even described what he would be wearing.

A spokesperson for the police said: "The victim was willing to make the bank transfer and withdraw the cash because he thought he was helping the bank and the police.

"Thankfully, he became suspicious and called the police to inform us what had gone on. No money was exchanged.

"We would just ask you to be aware of this scam and check in on your elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours.

"The bank and police will NEVER ask for your bank details or ask you to transfer or withdraw money."

For help and advice about how you can stay safe from scammers visit Action Fraud via https://orlo.uk/OAlN4 or call 0300 123 2040