Police are investigating reports of an elaborate 'fuel can' fraud after reports that motorists are being targeted.

Drivers are being targeted along the M4 corridor, however the fraud has also happened in Somerset.

The man carries a green fuel can and is believed to stand on various slip roads. Claiming his vehicle has broken down elsewhere due to running out of fuel he asks motorists for a lift to the nearest service station.

En route he claims to take a call from the Highways Agency or police who require his car to be moved at a cost of around £1000. Those giving him a lift have then offered to help out towards the cost. Once dropped at the services they never hear from him again.

Similar incidents occured in early 2014 which a man was convicted for but who has since been released from prison.

The latest incidents took place in May and June 2015 and resulted in the man conning two victims out of several hundred pounds.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have been targeted in similar circumstances or who has any information about these incidents.

People with information are asked to contact police on 101. Alternatively people can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.