THIS WEEK is the start of a national campaign against bogus workmen and doorstop crime.

Operation Monarda has been put in place to target bogus workers who can often be very convincing.

Doorstep criminals are creative and often, anyone can be fooled as these people are professional con artists, however, people who are over the age of 60 are often specifically targeted.

South Ayrshire Police is taking part in Operation Monarda to provide reassurance to vulnerable members of the public.

Bogus workers could be doorstepping for anything - from convincing a house owner that their roof is leaking to persuading that they need their drive way cleaned.

Area commander for South Ayrshire, Chief Inspector Gary I’Anson, said:

"Anyone can be fooled by a bogus caller – they can be cunning, creative and convincing and they often target the most vulnerable members of our community. The consequences of being a victim of crime can be far reaching and damaging to someone’s life.

"It’s important that those who participate in this type of crime are identified, arrested and held to account for their actions. 

"Rest assured we will continue to target those involved. 

"We liaise closely with other agencies and organisations, strengthening our partnership approach, by working together to ensure we keep our residents in South Ayrshire safe."