A man posing as a council worker has been trying to con people out of money by offering a bogus waste removal service.

In one instance, after claiming to work for Harrow Council and taking £50 off an unsuspecting ‘customer’, the scammer, known as ‘Charlie’, simply dumped the rubbish a few doors down.

The council described him as around 5ft 6in tall and aged between 22 and 26. He has missing front teeth and blond hair.

He has been seen wearing dirty work clothes and arrived at his victim’s door on a red bike.

Harrow Council explained how such activity contributes towards a serious fly-tipping problem; one which cost the borough’s taxpayers £400,000 last year.

It added that a genuine waste collector will have a Waste Carriers License and ID and advised that users write down the remover’s name and number.

The council also offers a waste removal service and an appointment can be set up by calling 020 8424 7600.

Anyone who spots ‘Charlie’ is advised to call the police on 101.