Elderly people are being duped into handing over cash to help neighbours supposedly in need of a locksmith, according to Surrey Police.

Police officers are warning older people to be on their guard after a spate of "despicable" cons.

In a recent case a man claimed to be a victim's neighbour and asked to borrow £120 for a locksmith, in Oatlands Chase, Weybridge, on August 8.

He is described as white, in his 30s, slim, with short, light brown hair and was wearing a white vest and beige shorts.

Another victim who was in his 90s answered the door to a man in St George's Avenue, Weybridge, on July 25, claiming his son was alone at home asleep and that he had lost his keys and had no money on him.

He asked for cash for a locksmith and was given £120 by the unsuspecting victim.

The man is described as white, in his late 20s, 5ft tall, of a slight build, with mousey brown hair and he was said to be wearing a white vest and trousers.

In a similar con a man knocked on the door of a resident in Lower Green Road, Esher, on July 22, claiming he had been locked out of his house with a child inside and asked to borrow £130 for a locksmith.

The money was never returned.

He is described as white, of an average build, 17 to 19-years-old, 5ft 9in, with short reddish hair and he was said to be wearing casual clothes.

Elaine Burtenshaw, Elmbridge’s crime reduction advisor, said: "We are investigating a series of incidents which we believe are linked, although the description does differ slightly and the suspect seems to tweak his story on each occasion."

If you have any information which could help the investigation call Surrey Police on 101, quoting 45150064167 or visit my.surrey.police.uk/splonlinereportingweb.

The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.