Police are warning again about a courier scam after a pensioner was tricked into travelling to London to buy expensive watches.

Kent Police has received reports of fraudsters trying to trick people into purchasing high value watches and then handing them over to someone who claims to be a police officer.

Victims are being called at home by fraudsters pretending to work for the police. They claim they need the victim to help them in a police investigation into illegal activity taking place in specific stores.

Victims are told not to tell anyone they are taking part in an investigation and that they will get a refund. The fraudsters then arrange the watch to be collected by someone pretending to be a plain clothes officer.

This has happened to an elderly lady in Greenhithe, and more recently to a man in his 80s from Gravesend who was tricked into going to New Bond Street in London to buy two watches. He bought one, but his bank cancelled the second transaction when they noticed the suspicious activity.

Staff were concerned about the man's behaviour and notified police, who got him a refund.

Detective Sergeant Marc Cananur said: "We are currently conducting enquires into these incidents but would like to remind people how to spot the signs of a fraudulent phone call.

"Sadly, we are seeing more cases like this and I would encourage friends and family members to pass on fraud prevention advice to help protect residents who may not be aware of these types of scams."

Police have shared tips on how to avoid being a victim.

A spokesman said: "The police or your bank will never send a courier to your home to collect your bank card or other items and will never ask for cash, valuables, or your PIN.

"If you receive one of these calls end it immediately without providing information.

"If you wish to call your bank use a number known to you, not one provided by the caller. Call from another phone, or call a friend first to ensure the offenders have been disconnected from your line.

"If you’ve handed over any personal bank details to a fraudster, call your bank and cancel your cards immediately."