Residents in Hemsby and Caister have been targeted by a scam in recent weeks, where someone has claimed they are a police officer in order to try and extort money.

In one incident a male has placed a call stating that he's a police officer from New Scotland Yard and is investigating a member of Lloyds Bank staff who is stealing from accounts held at the bank. He gave the fake name and number of DC 772 Rogers.

The male has then asked the victim to withdraw all money from their account at a cash machine and hand it over to him so he could place the money in a safe place. The victim was also asked to state what they were wearing so they were easily identifiable at the ATM.

Great Yarmouth Superintendent Roger Wiltshire said: 'Luckily on this occasion no money was handed over, but this was only due to neighbourly concern and intervention.

'Please be aware that police or bank staff will never ask you to divulge your card pin number, the amount held in your account or for you to withdraw any monies.

'These offenders will target elderly and vulnerable people so please be mindful of friends and family who may be liable to this type of call and let them know the advice above.

'If you receive such a call do not provide any security details, end the call and inform your local police on 101 or get in touch with Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.'

More information on how to recognise and help protect yourself from fraud can be found on the Action Fraud website www.actionfraud.police.uk.