POLICE stopped scores of vehicles across Renfrewshire yesterday as part of a new clampdown on bogus workers.

The operation took place in Johnstone, Elderslie and Bishopton, with around 80 vehicles stopped and checked by officers from the community policing team.

They were supported by specialist resources from Police Scotland's road policing unit.

Officers were looking for tell-tale signs of activities involving bogus workers, such as different leaflets with different company names that can be used to con victims into agreeing to fork out cash.

During yesterday's operation, police also arrested a 16-year-old suspect in connection with alleged crimes of violence and apprehended a 34-year-old man in connection with the alleged supply of drugs.

Police said these suspects had been travelling in separate works vehicles that were stopped.

Sergeant Manjit Singh, from the Johnstone, Renfrew and the villages community policing team, told The Gazette: "Doorstep crime continues to have a disproportionate impact on the elderly and is known to be under-reported.

"This campaign seeks to provide appropriate support through enforcement and prevention by raising awareness within our communities.

"There have been a number of reported incidents within the Paisley and Johnstone areas in recent weeks and we are responding to those concerns, working in partnership with our road policing teams and partnership agencies.

"Everyone has a part to play in terms of protecting the vulnerable. We are asking our communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity via 101 or, in the case of an emergency, by dialling 999.

"You can also report anonymously by dialling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."