POLICE are investigating after con artists struck in Hursley.

At around 11.30am on Monday (March 17), an 86 year-old woman was approached in her home, at Pelican Court, by a man who asked to do some work around her house, including some free hedge trimming.

Police today (March 19) said the woman declined, but the man was very persistent and followed her into her house.

The woman got her purse out and took out £200. The man took the money from her, saying he wished to count it, but then left the house without handing it back.

The man is described as white, heavy set, of medium height with a thick neck, blue eyes, short grey hair, aged between 50 and 60 and he wore a tweed type jacket.

PC Elaine Cawkill said: "This is another example of a callous criminal preying on an elderly person and we are very keen to find the man responsible.

"I would ask that anyone who may have seen this man, or saw anyone else acting suspiciously in the area at the time, to contact us as soon as possible.

"A white van was seen in the area at the time and could be connected and anyone with information about this, or any other vehicles acting suspiciously should contact us as well.

"Members of the public should not engage with cold callers who claim to provide tree cutting or grounds work. Nor should they allow them into the house or hand over money for work that has not been done."

Anyone with information should contact the Priority Crime Team at Winchester police station on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.