Police warning over bogus snow sweeper

POLICE today warned residents to be on their guard against bogus workmen offering to sweep snow from pathways after an 85-year-old woman was targeted.

The suspect called at the pensioner's home in Whitecraig Gardens in Whitecraig, East Lothian, and offered to clear the snow from her path. Although no payment for the service was discussed, the man later called to demand a payment and only left when she handed over cash.

Police said no other residents in Whitecraig Gardens reported a visit by the man, and police are now keen to speak to anyone who may have seen him in the area following the incident at around 1pm on Tuesday.

A police spokesman said: "It would seem the elderly occupant believed the male who called at her door was from the council and so allowed him to carry out the work without challenging him further."