Police have praised two Bristol home owners who turned away a conman who called at their door.

A man first called at a house in Glenfrome Road, Eastville, at 10pm on Sunday March 22. He claimed he had locked himself out of his house and asked to use the phone.

After using the phone he asked to borrow some money for a taxi. The woman would not lend him any and he left empty handed.

The next day at 9am a man used the same ruse at a house in Wells Road, Knowle.

When the man asked to use the phone the resident directed him to a nearby telephone box.

The conman was Asian, aged in his mid 30s and was over 6ft tall.

He wore glasses and was well dressed and well spoken.

Police are linking these two incidents to three others in the past fortnight in which home owners have lent this man money which was never repaid.

PC Christina Jones from Trinity Road Police Station said: "This man can be extremely persuasive and exploits people's compassion and desire to help others in difficult situations.

"We are keen to find this individual and speak to him in connection with these incidents. I would ask that when he calls at a house people call the police immediately on 999 if he is still in the area.

"I would like to praise the two residents who sent this man away empty-handed for recognising this man as a conman, albeit a very persuasive one.

"They acted just as they were supposed to do and did not give money to a stranger who knocked on their door. If you receive someone at your doorstep who you do not recognise and are not expecting do not let them in. Only open your door with the chain on and do not hand over money on the doorstep."

Anyone with information about the man should call Avon and Somerset police on 0845 456 7000. People can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Callers do not have to leave their name and could qualify for a reward.