POLICE have issued a warning after a vulnerable East Renfrewshire pensioner was duped out of thousands of pounds by a bogus workman.

The 81-year-old victim, of Netherlee, was tricked into handing over cash for building work that was never carried out.

Officers are now urging residents to avoid getting work done by those who come to their doorstep unannounced.

A police spokesman said: “This was a terrible incident in which a vulnerable man was talked into handing over thousands of pounds.

“We recommend that residents seek advice or recommendations from friends or family to complete work, so it is carried to a suitable standard.

“Often, people in these incidents do not feel confident to speak up or contact us but we would urge them to do so.”

Police said a 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and was due to appear in Paisley Sheriff Court.

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