Andrew Smith, formerly of Cranbourne Hall, Winkfield, visited the homes of elderly or vulnerable residents in Crowthorne, Reading and Bracknell between May 13-September 2 last year.

He disguised himself as a qualified roofer and either quoted homeowners extortionate prices for roof repair work that did not need undertaking, or stole cash from them.

The 20-year-old was arrested on September 2 last year and charged the following day, before pleading guilty at Reading Crown Court on February 23 this year to five counts of fraud and two counts of burglary.

Smith was sentenced to three years and four months in prison at the same court on Friday.

Detective Constable Sarah Webb, of Local CID based at Bracknell Police Station, who jointly investigated the offences alongside PC Chris Susel of Local CID based at Loddon Valley Police Station, said: “Smith visited properties of elderly and vulnerable people, portraying to be a qualified roofer. He would then either steal from the homeowners, or quote them extortionate prices for roof repairs that did not need undertaking.

“The judge in the case, Judge Ian Grainger, described the offences as ‘despicable’ and commented that the victims had been ‘violated’ – I would echo these remarks and also thank the victims for the bravery and courage they have shown throughout our investigation.

"I hope that the sentenced handed down to Smith will bring the victims some closure and act as a deterrent to other offenders who prey on society’s most vulnerable people.

“I would like to thank all the officers and staff who have worked on this investigation, as well as the Crown Prosecution Service for bringing the case to court."