A Kenilworth resident was nearly scammed out of £28,000 this week, with police now warning locals to be wary of bogus phone calls.

The victim, who has not been named, was called on Thursday (October 5) by someone claiming to be from the fraud department of a well-known bank.

They told the resident they were trying to catch a scammer and even provided the name of the so-called suspect.

They then asked the resident to transfer £28,000 to a specified account in order for them to trace the suspect.

Believing this to be true, the resident went to her bank and transferred the amount.

However, staff at the relevant bank picked up what was happening and cancelled the payment.

"These things can be embarrassing for those who become victims," a Kenilworth Watch spokesperson said.

"However, no one should feel embarrassed as the offenders making these calls can sound very professional and plausible."

Warwickshire Police's Safer Neighbourhood Team for Kenilworth are appealing to all residents, especially the elderly or vulnerable and those who may care for them, to be aware of these scam calls.