Residents are being warned about a woman who is committing a doorstep scam in Croydon.

The woman has been knocking at random addresses late at night in the Woodside, Addiscombe and Ashburton areas.

According to Sergeant John Nunn, from Ashburton Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), the woman has been shouting "hysterically" at people to open the door.

She then claims that a family member has been taken to hospital and she needs to get there.

The woman usually states that she has a number of children and they all need to get to hospital.

She has been offered lifts and declined, saying she needs to get a taxi.

Sgt Nunn said: “Residents have deceived by this story and given her money usually £20 or £40 for a taxi.

"This whole story is a scam."

Residents are advised to call 999 should anyone knock on their door with a similar story, at any time of day, and not to hand over any money.

To contact the SNT e-mail Ashburton.SNT@met.police.uk or call police on 101.