An attempt by alleged rogue traders to target an elderly couple was thwarted thanks to bank staff.

Havering Police are warning others to be aware after the pair were approached by three men who told them work needed to be done to their roof.

The alert was raised after an 84-year-old man entered Barclays Bank in High Street, Hornchurch, accompanied by another man and asked for a £6,000 loan to pay builders.

Staff alerted police at about 4pm on Tuesday June 16, and gave a description of the man accompanying the victim – who had just left the bank.

Det con Dave Attreed, from Havering CID, said: “These men have attempted to commit a despicable crime by targeting a vulnerable elderly couple.

“If anyone has had any similar callers or has seen any suspicious men or vehicles, please contact us.”

All three men are described as white with Irish accents.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud and has been bailed to attend an east London police station in mid-July.

Anyone with information about the fraud is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference: 5409136/15. Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.