Darlington police are warning people to be on their guard against a couple who approach people in the street demanding money for petrol.

The pair are said to have harassed an elderly woman in Duke Street yesterday afternoon, saying their car had run out of petrol.

A couple fitting the same description were reported about half-an-hour later after they flagged down motorists in the Marshall Street, Corporation Road area of Darlington, using the same story.

The man is in his late 20s, 5ft 5in, with dark hair and a dark complexion. He was wearing a black Adidas top with white stripes on the sleeves.

His companion was in her early 20s and had long hair, tied in a pony tail.

Anyone with information should contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.