SCAMMERS have been flagging down vehicles near petrol stations and supermarket car parks claiming they need money for fuel, police have revealed.

In a bid to secure a quick loan, the criminals offer jewellery which turns out to fake so they can make off with the cash.

One incident in Wisbech Road, Littleport resulted in a 67-year-old handing over �80 to a man claiming to have run out of petrol.

She was given jewellery, which turned out to be worthless.

Incidents have also taken place across the county in South Cambridgeshire and nearer to Cambridge.

Officers have urged motorists not to hand over their cash to the criminals.

Detective Constable Mark Beaven said: “We would urge people to be on their guard against this type of fraud and to never hand over cash in such circumstances.

“If you are approached by someone asking for money, report the matter to police on 101.”