A FRAUDSTER conned an elderly couple out of nearly £2,000 in cash by pretending to be a bank employee.

Police are appealing for information after the man targeted the couple when he phoned their home pretending to be from a bank.

The man spoke to both victims, aged 82 and 83, at their home in The Ridgeway, Fareham, and asked for their bank details between midday and 1pm on January 19.

Officers say the man told them he would send a courier to collect their cards and arrange for replacements to be sent.

A second man then attended the victims' address a short moment later to collect the cards.

A total of £1,750 was then withdrawn from cash machines using the cards.

The man who collected the cards is described as black, of slim build, around 5ft 7ins in height, with short dark hair, and had a moustache and goatee.

Officers say he wore dark clothing and and was quietly spoken.

PC Pierre Bertram, said: “I am appealing for anyone with any information about this incident to come forward.

"Did you see the offender in the area when he collected the cards? Have you received any similar calls?

“You should never hand over you bank cards or pin numbers to anyone. If you are ever contacted in this way, call your bank directly using a contact number that you have sourced yourself.

"Also, when making the call, ensure you can hear the dialling tone so you know the previous caller has put the phone down. If you are ever suspicous of a called at your home or on the phone, call the police immediately.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Bertram at Fratton police station by calling 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.