AN elderly couple nearly fell victim to bogus builders before refusing to hand over more than £2,000.

The pensioners were targeted by an elaborate scam after they were called on by a man on Wednesday afternoon.

He claimed he represented the firm that had weatherproofed the pebble-dash on their home in Totteridge, High Wycombe.

After inspecting the house he suggested some builders come to fix the guttering.

Three hours later, three men called and climbed on to the roof before giving the couple a quote of £2,800.

The trio of builders claimed they could not accept cheques and offered them a discount if the elderly victims, both in their 70s, paid in cash.

When the couple refused the builders became pushy and left promising to return with a written quote later in the day.

They did not return.

Hours later the couple discovered their guttering was lying in their garden.

PC Paul Jervis, investigating the incident, said: "These men operated a clever scam and it would have been very easy to be misled. The couple were determined and did not back down and part with their money. I would urge everyone to act as they did."

Call PC Jervis on 08458 505 505 or Trading Standards on 01296 383 212.