RESIDENTS in York have been urged to remain vigilant following reports of a rogue trader working in the city.

North Yorkshire Police have appealed for witnesses following the incident in Haxby last week.

A spokesman said the incident happened in Sandringham Close during the day on May 20, and involved a vulnerable elderly resident.

Three men knocked on the door of the resident and offered to do some roofing work.

They claimed the work needed doing, and they would work for cash only.

A neighbour asked what the men were doing, and they then left the area with £500 from the vulnerable elderly male victim.

The police spokesman said: “The three suspects are all described as white men.

“It is believed one of the men had an Irish accent, is described as being tall, thin with short black hair and a short black beard.

“He was also wearing all dark clothing.

“We are conducting enquiries and are requesting the public’s assistance to help determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“In particular, we are appealing for information about the three men and the vehicle they have travelled in.”

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two, and ask for PC 425 Nik Jackson.

Alternatively, email nikki.jackson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111, quoting reference number 12170086605.

More information on staying safe in your home is available on the North Yorkshire Police website, by visiting northyorkshire.police.uk or from Trading Standards on 03454 040506.