DRIVERS are being urged to be alert to a roadside scam, after a couple were flagged down by someone who offered them a gold ring in exchange for money for petrol.

North Yorkshire Police say a couple travelling in the Ryedale area were stopped by a young man at about 9.15am on Monday, August 1.

The man, described to police as being of Asian appearance, told them he had run out of petrol and had no money to buy any, offering his gold ring in exchange.

Police say anyone approached or flagged down should call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and give details, especially the registration number of the car used by the suspect.