POLICE and the daughter of an elderly couple conned out of £1,000 by rogue workmen have issued a warning to other residents to be careful.

The incident happened yesterday in Whitehall Road when one of a group of five men, described as Travellers, called at a house on Whitehall Lane, Grays, and told the occupants - a man and woman aged 81 and 91 they were cutting down a tree in a neighbour's garden.

The couple's daughter described what happened next, saying: "They talked their way into the house saying they were cutting trees for a neighbour and could do mum's for a cheap price. They then asked for more money and took mum to the bank to get some cash. They left doing half a job and all the branches over my dad's garden. They looked round the garage and garden before leaving.

"Please, please be careful of anyone knocking on doors in the area and offering help. My parents are devastated."

Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, following a complaint. It was reported the men's vehicle had 'tree surgeon' on the side.

A police statement says: "We are investigating an incident in which men posing as tree surgeons tricked an elderly woman out of a four figure sum of cash.

One of the suspects knocked on the victim's door and claimed he was doing work on a neighbour's tree that was overhanging onto the victim's property. He offered to work on her garden.

"Payment was agreed and the suspects drove the victim to a bank to withdraw the money. But they left with the money before finishing the work.

"The incident took place between 1pm and 3pm on Wednesday 10 June.

"Anyone with information or saw these men in the area at the time is asked to call the Grays Local Policing Team on 101 quoting reference 42/83393/20.

"We urge residents to please be vigilant and contact us if they see anyone acting suspiciously.

"Most people who call at your home will be genuine but it's important to be on your guard and remember there are bogus callers about, who can be persuasive.

"Always check the caller is who they say they are before letting them in and remember not to leave doors open and unattended.

"If you need to have work carried out, get a number of quotes and contact a Buy With Confidence accredited trader."