A woman has been left "shaken" after a bogus workman tried to force his way into her home.
The incident happened some time between 6.05pm and 6.20pm on Tuesday night in Kilbirnie.
Police say the man turned up unannounced claiming he was there to service the central heating.
The individual, who appears to have distinctive features and spoke with a local accent, tried to get into the property but the 49-year-old woman prevented him from doing so.
An appeal for information was issued last night by police who have now warned residents to be on their guard.
Detective Constable James Wales of Saltcoats police station, said: "The man attempted to force his way into the house but was prevented by the victim, which left her shaken but unhurt by the incident.
"We are keen to trace a man who is described as being around the age of 55, of heavy build with jet black "bowl cut" style hair with a line shaved into [the] left side.
"He had a black moustache and goatee beard and was wearing a navy blue fleece jumper, navy blue combat trousers with white paint on left leg and black work boots. He has a local accent.
"If anyone knows anyone matching the description or who saw a small white van with roof bars upon it in the area, please contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting 2716 of 8 June, 2021."
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