A pensioner has been left with a large hole in his roof after he was allegedly scammed by a rogue trader.

Police are investigating after a man living close to North Ash Road in New Ash Green was cold called by someone claiming he had seen a loose roof tile on his property.

Before the victim had given permission, a man climbed a ladder and removed several tiles from his room before allegedly pressuring him into paying £1,500, following demands for payment.

The victim has now been left with a large hole in the top of his home following the incident on October 10, which was reported to the police on October 18.

Now, officers are reminding residents to be on guard as it is believed other homes in the area may have been targeted.

The suspect, a man in his 50s, was accompanied by a younger man, who may be in his late teens.

They were travelling in a blue Honda CRV and an investigation into this incident is ongoing.

In addition, reports of similar suspicious activity have been noticed by officers in Edenbridge.

Two men have been offering work to roofs and gutters, at the doors of homes in the Ridge Way, Edenbridge, and were seen travelling in a white Peugeot Partner van.

Officers are reminding residents of steps that can be taken to deter doorstep fraudsters.

The advice from the police is:

- Do not deal with people who knock on your door offering work on your home or garden and if you have any concerns call the police.

- Genuine companies will not expect cash in advance or tell you to go to the bank to withdraw money.

- Use reputable traders who are members of the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme Trading Standards Checked

- Ask for quotes in writing and check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from.

- Ring at least three traders to get a feel for an average price for the job.

If a crime is in progress call 999, otherwise report any problems involving suspected rogue traders via 101 or contact the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.