POLICE have issued a warning after fresh reports of bogus workmen scamming people in both Largs and Millport.

The News reported recently how elderly islanders had been targeted by con artists offering to clear their guttering and do work around their homes.

Officers believed they had warded the culprits off - but now fresh reports have surfaced of people being targeted through leaflet drops and a spate of cold calling.

Police believe the original culprits have returned locally, as well as spreading their net across a wider North Coast area.

Cumbrae community councillor Sharon Hagen told the News people need to be on their guard.

She said: "I have contacted the council about this and asked them what we can do in partnership to prevent residents from being scammed.

"I was informed that something similar happened on Arran. They ran a campaign to raise awareness and had leaflets made up to hand out to residents.

"I don' think we need something that drastic just yet but I think having leaflets to alert people and advise them what to do in the situation and what to look out for would be a good idea.

"I also think it would be good if we could have a chat with the elderly forum about doorstep crime and scams in general.

"It would allow us to advise people to be on alert and prepared for whatever can happen."

Cumbrae police officer told the News they are aware of bogus workmen offering to do guttering work on the island and in Largs in recent weeks.

The Cumbrae suspect is a male, has no vehicle and is just walking door to door.

A police spokesperson said: "There is little we can do if reports are weeks after the incidents happen. We need to be made aware right away so that we trace the person and deal with it."

PC Johnson, Preventions and Interventions Officer for North Ayrshire, said: "Recently, in the North Coast Locality we have seen an increase in reports of doorstep callers and suspicious activity, and enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible.

"We are encouraging everyone to remain vigilant and not to deal with uninvited callers at your home offering to sell goods or services. Our advice is simple - just politely say no and close your door.

"From bogus callers to rogue traders, doorstep criminals are cunning, creative, and often very convincing.

"We are asking everyone to follow our doorstep safety advice, to look out for neighbours, pass the information to family and friends and to report anything that appears suspicious."

Suspicious activity and criminality should be reported immediately to Police Scotland by calling 101.

Information on those involved in doorstep crime can be passed to Police Scotland or to the independent charity CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.