A CRUEL conman tricked an 82-year-old woman out of £60 after posing as a gardener at her Bournemouth home.

His victim handed over the cash after the smartly-dressed man told her he would cut down a tree for a total of £80.

He then walked away from her home and she hasn't seen him since.

Now neighbours of the victim have condemned his actions and have warned others to be on their guard.

"I don't know how these people can go round doing things like this," said one neighbour, who did not want to be named.

"They must have mothers and grandmothers of their own and I'm sure they wouldn't like it to happen to them."

The man struck in the Muscliff area at around 2.30pm on Monday.

He knocked on the door of the woman's home and offered his services for household and garden work.

"I had wanted a tree cut for a long time so I thought this would be a good time to get it done," said the woman, who lives alone.

"He asked for £80 but I only had £60. He said it didn't matter and that I could give him the rest of the money later.

"As soon as I put the money in his hand he left, saying something about going to get his lorry. He didn't come back."

Police are now investigating the incident and have urged anyone with information to contact them on 01202 222500 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

The man is described as 35-45-years-old, 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in tall, clean-shaven and with short, dark hair.

He is believed to have been wearing a navy blue jumper and trousers.