POLICE in Bromsgrove are warning people to take extra care using cash point machines after a man was the victim of a cash card scam.

Shortly after 1pm on Sunday (26 June) a 53-year-old man went to use a cash point machine at a bank in Bromsgrove town centre. As he approached, a woman at the machine with her family appeared to be having difficulty using it.

She indicated he could use the machine first, which he did, and after he had finished, she returned to the machine.

The man then realised he had not had his card returned and so contacted the bank. It was later discovered £500 had been withdrawn from his account.

The woman, described as Asian was with a man, a youth in his teens and a younger child, all described as Asian.

A police spokesman said: "We're not sure how it was worked or if a device was used. It would seem this man has been deiberately distracted and then failed to notice his card had not been returned to him as he finished using the machine.

"Our advice to anyone using automatic teller or cash point machines is to be aware of your surroundings and people around you. If someone is acting suspiciously or makes you feel uncomfortable, use a different machine. Never accept any assistance from 'well-meaning' strangers nor let yourself be distracted.

"It may even be prudent to use machines located inside banks or building societies and to take advantage of the cash-back system offered by many retail outlets.

"If people do witness any suspicious activity at a cash point or believe the machine may have been tampered with, they should not use it. Instead, report it immediately to the bank if it is open or alternatively call the local police."

Anyone with information should contact police on 08457 444 888 or anonymously on the 0800 555 111 Crimestoppers number.