BOGUS workmen have conned an 88-year-old Port Glasgow householder out of £1,000 after claiming they needed urgent roof repairs.

Police are today hunting three men who called at the pensioner's property in Lilybank Road out of the blue at around 10am on Thursday.

The rogue traders offered to carry out repairs to guttering before informing the homeowner that they needed urgent work done to their roof.

They obtained over £1,000 from the elderly resident before fleeing the property after being challenged by a family member.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch and help identify the culprits.

The men were all wearing hi-visibility vests and were using a flatbed-style vehicle.

One of the suspects was also carrying a black and white Adidas bag.

Sergeant Jason Logsdon, of Greenock police, said: "Doorstep crime is an incredibly invasive and impactful crime which can have a devastating effect on victims and their confidence within their own homes. "I would ask anyone to contact Police Scotland to report any suspicious activity and forward this safety advice to members of their families and within their communities. "We must ensure we work together to tackle this sickening crime and prevent opportunistic criminals operating within Inverclyde.

"People who come to your door asking to carry out work aren't always what they seem, rouge traders will intentionally target vulnerable individuals in order to pressure them into urgent property repairs requiring money upfront and will even offer to attend at the bank with you. "Reputable trades people do not operate in this manner. "Never commission work on the doorstep, always get expert opinions and quotes, if in doubt speak to a relative, neighbour, Police Scotland on 101 or Inverclyde Council Trading standards on 01475 717171 who operates a Trusted Traders Scheme which provides details of reliable local traders who have been checked by trading standards."

Anyone with information can also phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.