MOTORISTS are being warned about a pair of fraudsters who have been trying to flag down West Somerset drivers claiming they have run out of fuel.

The two men, who are aged in their mid-30s, were targeting drivers on the A39 near Porlock yesterday morning (Thursday) claiming they needed money to buy fuel to get to Manchester.

The men, who are described as either Middle Eastern or Eastern European in appearance, were even trying to exchange "gold" rings in return for cash.

One motorist who did stop to help said the pair became threatening when he realised it was a scam.

"I got them to switch on the ignition and I saw the fuel indicator needle move so I knew they had fuel.

"They got a bit threatening with me so I told them where to go and drove off, but if a lady or an elderly person stops for them I'm sure it could be quite frightening for them," the man said.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed an incident had happened near Hacketty Way on the outskirts of Porlock at 10.47am, while a similar case had been reported a day earlier in Ilchester.

The spokesman added: "It is definitely a scam and while I am not aware it's a massive problem in West Somerset, I am aware of incidents elsewhere.

"Quite often these people will claim to be salesmen on their way to a conference with a briefcase full of luxury watches which they try and exchange for money for fuel.

"However, people later discover the watches aren't quite the luxury brands they thought they were."

The West Somerset conmen were driving a dark coloured car, which may have been a dark silver Vauxhall Vectra.

Anyone with information about similar incidents should contact the police on the non-emergency 101 number or dial 999 if they spot the men trying to flag down vehicles.