Beware dodgy sales operation (From Penarth Times)

Beware dodgy sales operation

A PENARTH man who suffers from cerebral palsy has been targeted by a con artist operating a roadside sales pitch.

Des James, 58, who rides a scooter to aid his mobility, was targeted in broad daylight on the morning of Saturday, October 16 as he went to his local shop on Stanwell Road. He was stopped by a man in a car who offered him a leather jacket.

Des said: "I was on my way to the Spar shop on Stanwell Road when a man stopped his car and asked for directions. He had a French accent and was driving a large saloon car, possibly a Granada. Getting out of the car, he asked me if I wanted to buy a new leather jacket. I told him that I wasn't interested but he wouldn't listen.

"He went back to his vehicle to fetch the jacket and put it over my shoulders. He said I could have it for nothing and hopped back into his car."

But instead of driving away from Des, the stranger tried to get payment for the garment.

Des added: "He pulled up on the road alongside me, lent out of his window and asked for £40. I told him I didn't have it so then he asked for £20. When I told him I didn't have the money he then got out of the car and took the jacket back.

"He wasn't nasty and he didn't threaten me but he was very persistent and it was a little intimidating. I was determined not to give him any money. I want other people to be aware that this is happening so that they can keep a look out for him."

Vale Police said they had not received other reports of the scam operating in the area but would encourage the public to come forward with any information.