A fraud awareness event was held in Marshalswick by Barclays bank and police community support officers.

Officers and staff gave presentations to elderly and vulnerable people about scams that are currently affecting people across the area – including, building scams, rogue traders, phone and bank fraud.

Bank staff also provided advice about safe banking, how to avoid becoming a victim to fraudsters and how to stay safe while withdrawing money from cash machines.

PCSO Chris Stokes said: “This was a great opportunity for local residents to learn about a number of scams currently operating in the county and take sensible, yet simple measures to help themselves avoid becoming victims of such crimes.

“Not only was it an ideal chance for people to take advice on board first hand, but they can also now go back to their relatives, friends and neighbours armed with the latest information and help them become fraud aware too.”

Laura Scott, branch manager at Barclays Marshalswick, said: “The time the PCSOs spent with us was invaluable not only for our customers but also my colleagues.

“At Barclays we are working closely with the community and police to try to prevent people being caught out by rogue traders and fraudsters.

“Colleagues in our branches continue to be vigilant and will often question customers if they feel they could be under duress when asking to withdraw large sums of money, especially the elderly.

“We hope this event helped to raise awareness of the different kinds of fraud and scams in existence.”