A conman has tried to cheat vulnerable Mitcham residents in a £5,500 doorstep scam.

The criminal told residents the cash was needed to purchase equipment for checking blocked drains beneath their homes in Figges Marsh.

The conman - described by police as a white, stocky man with very short hair, targeting “elderly and vulnerable” residents - has struck at least four times in the last two weeks.

Sergeant Juliet Sowter of Figges Marsh safer neighbourhood team said: “Please remain wary of any uninvited callers to your doorstep. Rogue traders often cold call on elderly and vulnerable occupants offering to repair driveways, replace roof tiles and other building work. Work, if done at all, is often of poor standard and cash is often demanded in advance followed by increasing ‘unexpected’ costs.”

She advised anyone receiving a visit from the man to phone 999.