A BASINGSTOKE pensioner who was driven to the bank to withdraw cash for a rogue trader is one of several people to have been duped.

Police are investigating a series of rogue trader incidents in Hampshire, and are urging members of the public to look out for their elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

Detectives have linked five incidents that happened in February and March, in the north of the county and in bordering police areas.

During the incidents, elderly members of the public were charged excessive amounts of money for roofing work that was often not needed, and then driven to the bank to withdraw cash.

The 84-year-old woman from Basingstoke was driven to the bank to withdraw £4,000 on March 29, but an off duty member of police staff intervened.

Similar incidents have occurred in Farnborough, Camberley, Aldershot and Windsor.

Detective constable Michelle Carrig, from Aldershot CID, said: “Please remember to ask anyone who knocks on your door for identification and if you are thinking about having any work done follow these tips: ask friends or relatives to recommend tradesmen; ask for a written quote; shop around before making a decision; don’t pay upfront and pay by cheque or credit card; keep an eye out for any elderly relatives or neighbours.”

Anyone with concerns about rogue traders should contact the Safer Neighbourhoods team on 101.

Seven people have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit fraud as part of the investigation into these offences and are currently on bail pending further enquires.