A BOGUS roofer has conned pensioners out of large amounts of money.

The man tricked two pensioners living in the Craven area of North Yorkshire out of their holiday money.

He also tried to con five other victims in the district.

The man either said he needed to repair their roofs, and demanded payment before disappearing, or said that he had already done the work.

Police warn he may strike again elsewhere in the county.

He first struck on September 22, targeting five homes in Bentham, Clapham, Settle and Burton-in-Lonsdale.

He then struck again on Monday, in Gargrave and Hellifield. Detective Constable Steve Menzies said: "Our advice is that no-one should agree to do business or hand out any money to anybody who calls uninvited to their door.

"If people call, just say no and close the door. Don't enter into conversation and, in particular, don't invite them into your home."

The man was white, between 45 and 60, about 5ft 6in, stocky, with light brown hair.

He is missing front teeth. His remaining teeth are discoloured and decaying. He may have an Irish accent.

The Northern Echo launched its Doorstoppers campaign last year to highlight the problem of bogus callers.

Anyone with information is asked to call (01423) 539334 or Crimestoppers on (0800) 555111.