A MAN saying he was a builder has tricked an elderly woman out of more than £200.

He told the woman the apex of the roof of the house - at Broadwas, near Malvern - needed work on it and went inside, saying the job would cost £200.

The victim offered the man between £200 and £250, but he said it wasn't enough and asked if she had any more.

She opened her purse and the man took around another £20 from it before taking the victim upstairs to see if she had any more money in the house.

When he found nothing he left by the front door.

The incident occurred between 11.40am and 11.55pm on Friday, June 29.

A police spokesman said: "This is a callous crime where a vulnerable, older person has been targeted and intimidated into handing over her money.

"We advise everyone - no matter their age - to always ask for identification before opening the front door or letting anyone into their homes and to never immediately accept work from people who cold-call. They should be asked to make an appointment and return when a friend or relative can be present."

Anyone who saw the man approaching or leaving the premises - or, perhaps, an un-familiar vehicle parked or being driven in the area - is asked to call police on 08457 444 888, quoting 267S/290607 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.