Lib Dem Councillor for Crouch End Ron Aitken has warned of a scam being carried out around Crouch End that resulted in a constituent losing £800 to a conman.

The constituent, who does not wish to be named, answered his door to a caller three weeks ago and was asked if he wanted his front garden cleared of rubbish. The man agreed a price of £130 and the work was carried out. Even so the conman asked for more cash and when the householder said he did not have any more money on him, offered to drive him to a cash point.

On reaching the Crouch End cash point the man demanded further sums, made threats and locked the unfortunate victim in his car until he handed over more money. The victim was extremely shaken and contacted Cllr Aitken in order to warn others of the risk.

“I am extremely concerned about this scam and want to warn other householders about the dangers of unwanted callers. You should always ask for identification from the gas, electricity people, and only use reputable firms to carry out work around the house. Above all anyone else who has been a victim in this way should immediately call the police.”