A NATIONWIDE police hunt has been launched for a conman who wins the confidence of pub landlords then steals from them.

The man is believed to have struck dozens of times - including in Selby, North Yorkshire - and has got away with tens of thousands of pounds.

Detectives said the fraudster steals chequebooks, cash and jewellery.

He then moves on to his next victim and assumes the identity of the cheque-holder to pay for food and accommodation before disappearing again.

Avon and Somerset Police said the man had travelled extensively and believe more victims are yet to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Dave Trotter said: "The offending runs into hundreds of crimes. Many publicans have fallen victim to him.

"One cheque book alone has resulted in fraudulent use of £10,000, and at one pub he ran up a bar bill of £120 in one night."

The man is described as white, 6ft 1in, and speaks with a strong Yorkshire accent.