POLICE are hunting a bogus gardener who persuaded a pensioner and his elderly mother to hand over hundreds of pounds before disappearing.

The man went to the home, where the 67-year-old man and his 90-year-old mother live, in John Knox Road, Longniddry on Monday morning, around 11am.

Police said he offered to carry out extensive gardening work at the property and was given a three-figure sum of cash before leaving to “get supplies”. He did not return.

The conman is described as a white man in his late twenties to thirties, around 5ft7in tall, with medium build, a clean shaven face and short dark hair.

He was wearing a blue jumper, trousers and black shoes and is believed to have been driving a white transit van.

Inspector Andrew Harborow said: “The occupants of the home in John Knox Road had been promised an extensive gardening service and agreed a fee with the suspect for work to commence immediately.

“However, he left the property and failed to return, leaving the victims out of pocket and very upset.

“We are now asking anyone who can help us identify the male responsible, or who has information relevant to this investigation, to contact police immediately.

“The public are advised never to allow cold-callers to carry out work at your home and if any maintenance is required then use a reputable and trusted company.

“Our communities are also asked to be vigilant for suspicious activity at neighbouring properties and help us protect vulnerable individuals by reporting any suspicions to police.” ENDS