A BOGUS caller conned a man in his 60s out of £6,800 in a scam involving solar panels.

The con man called at the victim’s York home at the beginning of May and told him that he was due a refund on some solar panels and said that to obtain the refund he had to pay cash up front.

The conman and some accomplices followed the victim to the bank in a white van while he withdrew £3,500. The money was handed over to the suspect who told the victim that he would get his refund cheque the following day.

But the suspect then returned the next day with another man and told the victim he was entitled to a bigger refund, but had to pay more money up front. Again the victim travelled to the bank, this time with one of the suspects as a front seat passenger in his car.

However no refund was forthcoming – and police have now released an e-fit of their suspect in the hope the public can help them track him down.

Detective Constable Tracey Pearson said: “This was a cruel and cowardly crime aimed at a vulnerable man who trusted the suspects. Their actions are beneath contempt and it is vital that we stop them from taking advantage of anyone else.

“I urge anyone who recognises the suspect from the e-fit to get in touch. I also appeal to friends, neighbours and relatives of older and vulnerable people to reassure them that they should not be afraid to say no to cold callers.”

Anyone who can help identify the suspect is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for York Investigation Hub.

To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.