A delivery driver has been thanked for his intervention after it helped an elderly man in Gravesend escape potential fraudsters.

Kent Police praised the "quick action" taken by the delivery driver who called them after he was told by the elderly man, a resident of peacock street, that it was costing him some £17,000 to have his roof re-tiled.

The driver arrived at the man's house on Peacock Street to drop off 700 roof tiles and got speaking to the resident, a man in his 80s.

After learning the repairs were costing him £17,000, the driver called Kent Police over concerns the man might be the victim of rogue traders.

As part of their enquiries they arrested a 35-year-old man from Sussex and a 37-year-old man from Essex, on suspicion of fraud.

Both men have since been bailed until 29 December pending further investigation.

Chief Inspector Shona Lowndes of north Kent Community Safety Unit said of the case: "Due to the quick action taken by the caller we were able to attend the property and make two arrests.

"The bank transaction organised by the victim was also frozen.

"This is an ongoing investigation which requires a number of enquiries, but I’d like to take the opportunity to remind people, especially in the run up to Christmas, to be vigilant about any cold callers who knock at your door suggesting home improvements.

"Vulnerable, isolated people are at particular risk of being targeted by rogue traders and other scammers, especially at this time of year.

"If you live alone and are contacted by someone either calling or knocking on your door then please discuss any works with your friends or family before parting with any money."