Cowboy roofers have left elderly residents out of pocket and with repair work.

Derwentside Police are warning pensioners to be on their guard after several complaints.

PC Philip Stephenson is to visit home owners in the centre of Stanley to warn those most vulnerable to the conmen not to hand over any cash.

The two men responsible have local accents and police say they must have local knowledge. So far they have brought misery to an elderly lady in Louisa Terrace and householder in Evelyn Terrace.

Their method has been the same - a cold call saying they have spotted roof damage that needs immediate attention. The men then either carry out the work badly or not at all. Their demands for the job have ranged from £100 to £300.

One of the men is aged 30-40, and the second is thought to be in his late teens or early twenties. They operate from a Transit-type pick-up van.

Anyone with information should call (01207) 232144.