Police have issued a warning after elderly people were targeted in Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells.

Officers received a report from an elderly Tunbridge Wells resident last Wednesday after receiving a phone call from someone telling her to buy iTunes vouchers.

The caller told her to then pass on the serial numbers.

Police also received reports from two banks in Maidstone after an elderly man withdrew £9,500 to pay two builders. This also happened last Wednesday.

These builders had partially completed work for the victim in November, and had visited them in March demanding more money.

They stated they had not previously been paid, despite the victim having paid them.

Another bank also contacted Kent Police after another elderly resident withdrew £12,000 over the course of last Thursday and Friday to pay someone who was painting her living room.

Sergeant Rachael Cumberland said: "I would encourage anyone who receives a phone call from someone they do not know and who is demanding money to hang up and to not give any personal details and it’s also important to remember that the police or a bank will never call up asking for a pin number.

"Likewise, if someone knocks at your door offering to complete work on your house always seek a second opinion and if in doubt tell a family member who may be able to help or alternatively call Kent Police on 101 where we can offer advice."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting reference 08-921. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.