Beggar conned money out of woman

The man who is known for approaching people in the street is said to be smartly dressed and polite.

But he told one woman he was looking after his children for the weekend and he needed £10 to top-up his electricity meter and having given her a £5 note as a deposit he failed to return with the rest of the money.

The woman, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “I understand that at least one person has reported that he turned up on her doorstep with the same story - she was rather frightened by it.

“I gave the money because I felt sorry for him. Ironically I asked for his name and address and he gave me the correct details. The police are talking to him about the begging.

“I feel daft for being taken in but not too bad about it as I was just trying to help another person.

“I would like to avoid other people being taken in.

“I gather that this man is being used as a front by more unscrupulous people.”

Pc Dennis Quinlan, of Leamington North Safer Neighbourhood Team, said the police know the identity of the man and that he had visited an elderly resident in Warwick New Road.

Anyone with concerns can call 101, 999, or Pc Quinlan on 684263.