ROGUE traders targeted an elderly couple and conned them into handing over more than £2,000 of their savings.

The four-man gang struck at a house in North Baddesley and told the pair that they needed work done to their roof. But after the victims handed over the cash the thieves then left without carrying out any work.

Police today described what happened as “despicable” as they stepped up the hunt to find the four responsible. They particularly want to hear from anyone with private CCTV cameras who may have captured images of the conmen.

The gang were described as white and all were wearing dark work clothes.

One of the men is described as over 6ft, in his 20s, with short, dark hair, clean-shaven and was said to be the salesman of the group. The three other men were all said to be aged between 40 and 50.

Detective Constable Richard Jones said: “These men have committed a despicable crime by deliberately targeting and conning vulnerable elderly people in their own home, and have made off with more than £2,000 of their money.

“I am keen to hear from anyone in the North Baddesley area who may have seen the offenders or the vehicle that they may have been using.

“If anyone has had any similar callers or has seen any suspicious men or vehicles, please contact us. In addition, if anyone has private CCTV that may have captured images of the offenders or their vehicle, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information on the incident, which happened on Wednesday, March 4, can call Det Con Jones at Southampton police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.