HEADINGTON residents have been told to dial 999 if a white 40-year-old man knocks on their door asking for money.

Thames Valley Police warned locals after several reports were made to the force of a man ringing doorbells, claiming he needed cash.

The latest incident happened on November 3 at around 11pm.

A man rang the doorbell of a house in Perrin Street, in Headington.

He gave his name as James Stevens and said that he was a neighbour, who needed help because he had locked himself out of the house.

The victim opened the door, and the man went on to explain that his mother had a spare key at her house therefore he needed to borrow some money to get there and pick up the key.

UPDATE - Another victim scammed by 'Headington door knocker' 

He insisted on giving his mobile number and asked the victim to call him so he had her number.

The victim gave the man £20, and said he would return the next day to pay the money back, but he did not return.

The man is described as a white man, about 40 years old and approximately 5ft 8.

He is thought to be of a medium build, with short dark brown hair and a short brown beard. He was dressed in dark clothing, and was carrying a black bag.

Thames Valley Police wrote in a statement, that if ‘someone fitting the description does call at your house, do not open the door’.

Instead, residents are urged to call the police on 999.

Fraud advice at police.uk/crime-prevention