AN IRVINE man faces charges of impersonating a police officer as well as a spate of alleged thefts.

David McKay, 44, was arrested and charged last month for alleged involvement in offences in the town centre. and East Road area.

When he appeared in court from custody this month, McKay faced 10 charges against him, including three of theft, four counts of fraud – one via credit/debid card – and one of attempted fraud.

He also faced a charge of impersonating a police officer and one of allegedly attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

McKay entered no plea to the allegations when he appeared in private on April 6 and was fully committed.

He was remanded in custody for the time being and will return to court at a later date.

Sgt Raymond Ferguson of Irvine Police Office said: “We encourage local residents to remain vigilant and look out for potential bogus callers attending addresses of vulnerable neighbours. Criminals can be convincing and specifically target the elderly or vulnerable members of the community.

“Please look out for your elderly neighbours/relatives and encourage them to report anything that appears suspicious.”