PENSIONERS have been urged to report suspicious callers after a failed attempt to con an 85-year-old woman from Petersfield.

Police are appealing for information after a man persistently asked an elderly resident at Broadway Park to pay for redecoration work.

The cold caller was challenged by the woman after he entered her caravan through the back door around 3pm on June 19.

The man claimed to be a decorator doing a survey and told the woman her property needed painting. He then offered to drive the woman to her bank or post office after the victim said she couldn't afford the £400 he quoted.

The woman then refused to tell him how much she paid for her caravan before declining to spilt the bill over two days.

The man, who was in his late 20s and of medium build, only left when the woman threatened to pull an emergency cord.

Police say the man, who didn't have any painting gear with him, had dark black hair, was around 5ft 8ins tall and was wearing a blue T-shirt and black trousers.

Pc Daniel Hurst has urged people to use a chain, particularly when answering the door to strangers, and never buy goods or services at the door. He also reminded people not to keep doors or windows open when not in the room.

He said: "This man was very persistent and tried to persuade the woman to hand over her cash. I would urge people to be vigilant and report any suspicious callers to the police immediately.

"I am appealing to anyone with any information about this incident to come forward. Did you see anyone matching this description in the area? Or did you see any unusual vehicles?"

Anyone with information can call Pc Hurst at Alton police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.