Driver 'in broken down car scam'

Shopkeepers are being warned by police in Surrey not to be taken in by a man who has been asking for money claiming his car has broken down.

Officers in Dorking said there had been two separate reports this week of a man requesting money to get his vehicle moving, promising to pay the cash back.

The man received £65 in total, but failed to return to the shops as guaranteed and could not be contacted.

He was described as white with a tanned complexion, and aged in his mid 30s.

Police said he was between 5ft 10in (1.7m) and 6ft (1.8m) tall, of medium build, with cropped dark hair, facial stubble and dark eyes.

'Very plausible'

He spoke with an accent and was wearing a long dark grey coat.

Both incidents happened between 1200 and 1300 GMT in the High Street, Dorking, on Wednesday.

Insp John Tadman said the man "seemed very plausible and even claimed his wife shopped in the stores he targeted".

"It is likely he will keep trying at different locations all the while he continues to be successful," he warned.

"Of course it could be the man's story was genuine and he intends to reimburse the two Good Samaritans but until that happens I would urge people not to part with their money."