POLICE are trying to track down a group of fraudsters after an elderly couple was conned out of a four-figure sum of cash in Laindon. 

The man and woman, who are both aged in their 70s, received a card through the door of her property in Bedford Road at around 11.30am on Monday, September 19 from a company claiming to carry out tree surgery.

The victims called the number and within half an hour six men arrived at her property.

They agreed to pay a three figure sum for some trees to be cut down, but midway through the work, the men claimed it would cost more due to the way they would have to dispose of the wood. The men did not state the amount but demanded a four-figure sum after completing the job.

The woman gave them some money and stated she would need get more out of the bank.

She went to the bank, while the suspects waited in a nearby carpark, and took the additional cash but provided no receipt.

It is also believed the men changed the original card put through the woman’s door and exchanged it for one which had different telephone numbers on.

The victims were able to provide descriptions of two of the men.

One was white and tanned, aged in his early 30s, of stocky build and 5ft 9in tall. He had short, neat, mousy hair and wore shorts and black work boots.

The other was white, aged in his mid 20s, of stocky build, 5ft 3in tall, and had neat, short blond hair. He wore a grey t-shirt.

The men had a white van, which was towing an orange chipper.

Investigating officer, Dc Jo Phillips, said: "These men have preyed on an elderly couple, conning them out of a significant amount of money.

"It is a heartless and disgusting crime and we are doing everything we can to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"I urge members of the public to be on the alert for any other con artists or bogus callers.

"Bogus callers are creative and their reasons for trying to gain entry to your house or claim for money may seem plausible, but be cautious.

"Always ask for ID if someone calls at your house and don’t leave large sums of money in your property.

"If someone is carrying out work on your property always get a quote before it is started, don’t be afraid to challenge them if they demand more money midway through, and if you are not happy with the standard of work contact Essex Trading Standards”.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Phillips at Basildon police station on 101.

People can also give information to the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via an Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org