A conman has been calling to businesses in Wandsworth telling owners he is from the council’s “debt recovery service” and demanding a £280 payment.

The fraudster allegedly said he required the money to renew their license or inspect their food premises.

The man, who called into at least three businesses on August 3 in Battersea Park Road and Falcon Road, is nothing to do with the council and is not employed by any town hall service.

The council's cabinet member for employment, skills and business development Councillor Kim Caddy said: “If people are approached by anyone claiming to be from the council they should always immediately ask to see a valid ID badge.

“If the person doesn’t produce one straight away or if there is any kind of excuse as to why it cannot be shown then this should be reported to the police immediately.”

The businesses he seems to be targeting are ones that may normally require a licence of some sort or be subject to environmental health inspections.

These include those that sell alcohol, offer hair or beauty treatments, massages, tattoos, piercings, sell pets, or are involved in the preparation, storage or sale of foodstuffs.

The man is described as white, slim to medium build and around five feet seven inches tall.