Police will be giving advice to tackle bogus callers and distraction thefts at a public meeting tonight.

Trading Standards will also be on the panel to discuss residents’ concerns.

The meeting was sparked by a fake drainage company which scammed an Ilford pensioner out of £5,000.

Posing as workmen from a company called “Drain Free”, the thieves convinced the man to hand over “deposits” for work that was never carried out.

In another incident, a gang of bogus police officers stole a woman’s car.

People posing as police officers have also been targeting elderly women around Redbridge to steal cash and jewellery.

Anyone is welcome to the meeting, 7pm, at Clementswood/Mayfield Community Centre, Connaught Road, Ilford. Confirm attendance by calling 020 8514 0861 or email wilson@aasecurity.co.uk.