AN elderly couple were duped out of their life savings by a rogue trader.

Aman claiming to be called Jonathan Roberts went to the elderly couple’s home in Stanford-le-Hope and told them they needed urgent roof repairs.

The couple paid the man £1,000 to fix the roof, but he never returned to do the work.

The conman was white, over 6ft tall, of athletic build, and with short dark hair.

He was wearing a baseball cap, T-shirt and shorts.

He had a very unusual tattoo on his left lower arm which read “I can do all things through Christ”.

Essex Police are refusing to release the couple’s street name, because they are elderly.

Det Sgt Eileen Mullins said: “This was a dreadful thing to do to a vulnerable couple and we are warning people to think twice before accepting offers of work from people knocking on your door.”

A spokesman from Essex County Council’s Trading Standards team, said: “Our staff are experienced in dealing with residents who have been targeted by these callers and residents should not be embarrassed or afraid to get in touch.

“Our advice is never to do business with cold callers offering household maintenance and repairs.

“We encourage anyone who has been targeted by cold callers to call the Trading Standards helpline on 08454 040 506 for advice, guidance and support.”

Anyone with information about man or the incident, which took place at noon on Wednesday, can call Det Sgt Mullins at Grays CID on 101.