A MAN in his 60s has been conned out of £6,800 by a cold caller.

The offender went to the man's door and told him he was due a refund on solar panels, but said that to obtain the refund he had to pay cash up front.

Police have released the efit image above, as part of their investigation

A North Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "The suspect and some accomplices followed the victim to the bank in a white van while he withdrew £3,500. The money was handed over to the suspect who told the victim that he would get his refund cheque the following day.

"The suspect then returned the next day with another man but told him that he was entitled to a bigger refund, but had to pay more money up front. "Again the victim travelled to the bank, this time with one of the suspects as a front seat passenger in his car.

"The victim withdrew all the money he had left and handed it over. He was told that someone would be waiting at his home with the refund, however when he arrived, there was no-one there and he was later told in a phone call that his refund cheque would be delayed for over a week."

The victim then rang police. 

Detective Constable Tracey Pearson of York Police, said: “This was a cruel and cowardly crime aimed at a vulnerable man who trusted the suspects. Their actions are beneath contempt and it is vital that we stop them from taking advantage of anyone else.

“I urge anyone who recognises the suspect from the efit to get in touch. I also appeal to friends, neighbours and relatives of older and vulnerable people to reassure them that they should not be afraid to say no to cold callers.

"If you are in any doubt about who is calling at your home, don’t open the door. If you feel threatened or see a crime in progress, always call 999.”

Can you help?

If you think you might recognise the suspect, phone police the York Investigation Hub on 101 (select option 2). If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Quote reference 12160078872 when passing on information.