Officers say that an arrest is expected imminently, following a number of reports of a man attending at houses around the town over the Christmas and New Year period.

A spokesman for Driffield police said yesterday that the man had gone to homes, requesting payment of £5 for window cleaning work which had not been done.

He said the man had particularly targeted older people and usually claimed to be collecting the money on behalf of the householder’s regular window cleaner.

The spokesman warned: “This is a con. Do not pay this man.”

The man is described as white, around 5’10 tall, of a thin build with dark eyes and dark coloured hair, which is said to be straggly. He was wearing a blue anorak and jeans.

Investigations into the incidents are continuing and officers have appealed for anyone who has been approached by the man to come forward.

Residents have been re-assured that any information given will be treated in confidence.

Anyone with information should phone police on 0845 6060222.