PUBS and clubs are on alert after a gang posed as salesmen to con their way into premises and trick staff into handing over cash.

Police are investigating a spate of incidents in which the fraudsters stole money from publicans.

Organised crime gangs are targeting pubs, bars and social clubs in the elaborate scam, with offers of "discounted" goods.

However, the goods are non-existent and the licence holders have been ripped off.

Senior officers said some pub managers in Lanarkshire had already fallen victim to the cunning conmen and their racket.

A source close to the probe, said: "The perpetrators induce staff to hand over various amounts of cash in return for goods.

"However, the goods don't exist and the staff never see the cash again.

"There have been a spate of premises in the Lanarkshire area targeted by these fraudsters in past few weeks."

Police are now warning managers and staff at pubs and social clubs to be "extra vigilant" and watch out for the doorstep crime gang.

One of the men involved is described as between 45 and 60-years-old, of medium build, wearing a green jacket, white shirt and dark jeans.

He is believed to be using a small light coloured 4x4 type vehicle.

Chief Inspector Sandy Blair at Hamilton Police Office said: "We have identified a number of premises that have handed over cash.

"But we believe others may have been targeted and have just not reported the incident to police.

"We would ask then anyone with any information about these crimes to contact us on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Earlier this year, the Evening Times revealed conmen were targeting plush golf clubs in a phone scam.

Fraudsters tricked staff at city suburbs courses into handing over hundreds of pounds in phoney fees. Golfers and staff in East Renfrewshire were warned over a phone scam aimed at conning them out of their cash.

Unsuspecting workers were duped into handing over up to £500 by fraudsters.

The scam was believed to be linked to a spate of incidents across the area.

Earlier this year, police launched a nationwide crackdown on doorstep crime.

Cops have teamed up with staff at Trading Standards agency to raise awareness about the dangers of rogue traders and bogus callers.

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