A POLICE investigation has been launched after pensioners were targeted by rogue traders who tried to con them out of money for doing work on their houses.

A 75 year-old man from Newton-le-Willows tried to withdraw a large amount of money from his bank after he was visited by two men at his home on Monday last week (November 29) and told he needed work doing on his chimney.

He was stopped by bank staff and the police were contacted.

Meanwhile on Sunday, November 20 an 82 year-old man, also from Newton-le-Willows, was approached by the men who said he owed them £100 for work done on his house.

Recognising the men as having done previous work for him, the pensioner said he had not asked for further work and when he said he had no money in the house they offered to drive him to the bank in their van or call him a taxi.

They said they would take £80 from him and returned to his house on two occasions but the man did not answer the door.

The van was reported to be a white, open back van, with ladders on it but no signage on the side.

One of the men is described as white, in his early 20s, with a large build and brown hair. He was wearing a bright green contractor’s jacket and jeans.

The second man was in his mid 30s, stocky build with light brown curly hair and wearing a bright green contractor’s jacket.

Nothing was taken in either incident and it is believed the same men were involved in both offences.

Detective Inspector Cath Haggerty said: "Offenders like this think nothing of deliberately targeting elderly people in their own homes and often appear entirely plausible.

"If you think you may have been targeted by this offender or you have suffered any type of bogus official or distraction burglary, I would urge you to call the police.

"It is vital people are on their guard against these types of offenders and do not open their door to anyone they don’t know. Although most people who call at your home are genuine, some are not and it is important to check the identity of any stranger who calls. Genuine callers will not mind waiting and should be carrying an official form of identification associated with their employment.

"There are some simple steps people can take to help prevent these types of crimes, but I’d also urge residents to look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours. If you notice someone suspicious in the area, call the police or contact your local neighbourhood policing team for more advice.

"Information from the public is really important for our investigations and every piece of information is looked into so please come forward if you know anything about this matter."

If you have any information on this incident, call Merseyside Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.