POLICE have launched an appeal after a woman in her seventies was conned out of a three-figure sum of money by bogus workmen in Innerleithen.

The incident took place around 1.30pm on Wednesday when three men attended a house claiming that the roof and guttering required extensive repairs.

They quoted the resident a four-figure sum then offered her a discount to go ahead with the sale, before demanding the money upfront.

She handed over a three-figure sum of cash and the men offered to drive her to a bank to withdraw the rest of the money.

The woman then attended a bank in Peebles herself to withdraw the remainder, at which point staff became concerned and contacted police.

The first suspect is described as being around 30 years old, of heavier build, with dark hair, a beard/facial hair and was wearing dark clothing.

The second suspect is described as around 30 years old, 5ft 10ins tall, slim but well-built, with black wavy hair, and wearing a black jacket and black overalls with orange detail on the bottom of each leg.

The third suspect is described as in his thirties, 5ft 10ins to 6ft tall, with fair hair and was wearing a green body warmer.

They are believed to have been travelling in a blue transit-type flatbed truck which had no front number plate, an aluminium roof ladder which was angled over the cab and a yellow band on the flatbed.

Community Inspector Tony Hodges said: "This was a despicable incident which saw three men try to intimidate a woman into handing over her money for bogus repairs.

"Thanks to the banks vigilance, these men were unable to get any further money however our enquiries continue to identify them and we're appealing for anyone who may have seem them in the area, or who recognises their descriptions or that of the vehicle, to come forward.

"As always, we'd continue to urge people to be vigilant with unexpected callers. Never accept an offer made by a workman who attends your property unexpectedly and call Police Scotland on 101 to report suspicious behaviour."

Those with information about this incident are asked to contact Galashiels CID via 101, quoting incident number 1845 of November 29, or report this anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.