POLICE are warning motorists to be vigilant after receiving reports of drivers being conned by tricksters at the side of the road.

Barnard Castle Police issued the warning after receiving reports that motorists were being flagged down and asked for money or fuel in return for fake jewellery.

Sergeant Simon Rogers, said: “Over the last couple of weeks we have had a few incidents both in the Teesdale and Weardale areas where motorists are being flagged down by another motorist who has been parked up at the side of the road and asking them for cash and in a couple of the incidents being offering worthless jewellery in exchange for cash.

“It’s just a message to get out to people if you are stopping to help motorists who appear to be asking for cash or fuel be very wary and if in doubt don’t give them anything because the majority will be someone trying to trick you.”

To report anything suspicious to call 101.