A CRUEL conman is being hunted by police after nine pensioners were targeted in less than a week.

Vulnerable pensioners were today warned to be on their guard against bogus callers after a spate of incidents in Glasgow.

Police said the conman targeted several elderly people after tricking his way into properties on the South Side of the city.

Since January 22, detectives have received a "series of calls" from elderly residents in the Mosspark and Craigton areas.

But, Detective Constable Kenneth Johnston, who is leading the investigation, ­believes there may be more victims who have not come forward.

He said: "It is utterly despicable that this man is targeting elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

"There may be other victims in the area who have not come forward as they are embarrassed that they have been conned by this man.

"But I would urge them to get in touch and speak to officers."

All the incidents have ­involved a man claiming to work for a housing association.

He said he needed to check the windows and kitchens of the properties. All the ­victims have become suspicious and have asked the man to leave.

One householder had ­personal property stolen.

Detectives have been carrying out "extensive inquiries" and reviewing CCTV in order to find the man responsible.

The suspect is described as white, aged between 50 and 60-years-old, and around 6ft tall.

Police said he has thick black hair, which is greying, and is described as being well spoken. He also carried a clipboard.

Detective Constable Johnston, added: "I would appeal to anyone in the local area who has seen a man matching the description of the suspect to contact police.

"As we have said previously, if anyone comes to your door that you are not expecting, check they have identification with them.

"If you have any suspicions or you wish to check, take their identification, close your door and call the company who they claim to be from."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.

rebecca.gray@eveningtimes.co.uk