Residents are urged to remain vigilant after reports of fraudsters attempting to impersonate community volunteers.

Volunteers at community hubs have heard reports of fraudsters using the COVID-19 lockdown trying to take advantage of vulnerable housebound residents in Fullarton and Vineburgh.

They are now reminding residents that volunteers would never cold call anyone or request a resident’s bank card.

Donna Fitzpatrick, of the Fullarton Community Hub, wrote: “We have received calls advising that someone or some persons are calling round elderly and vulnerable people in the area offering services to go shopping , pick up prescriptions etc. These people are saying they are part of the council and community hubs.

“Please note we would never cold call anyone. The only way to receive the service is when a person or their family members calls us directly to ask us to provide the service and the service will then be given.

“We have received a couple of calls from concerned family members regarding this. Can we please ask that anyone with elderly and vulnerable people in the family that you stress to them not to accept this offer and to not give out any information re personal circumstances. We cant stress this enough. Please try to enjoy the day a wee while out in the garden as the sun is out. stay safe folks.

“Once again we have had an issue highlighted regarding someone offering to collect a persons bank card and go to a cash machine for them. This is not something that anyone from Fullarton Community Hub or any of the other hubs, which include Vineburgh and Redburn, would do.

“We will never offer to take anyone’s bank card for anything. We never make contact with any individuals unless they have made contact with us.

“Please ensure to tell all your elderly and vulnerable friends and neighbours to be extra careful.”

A North Ayrshire Police spokesperson said: “Anyone can be fooled as these people are professional con artists. However, the over 60s are often specifically targeted.

“We are asking everyone to follow our doorstep safety advice, to look out for neighbours and to report anything that appears suspicious.”

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