A bogus detective gave the game away when he used the name of a character from TV show The Bill.

He knocked on one door and told the occupant: "I'm Detective Chief Inspector Jack Meadows" - the name of the character played by Simon Rouse in the hit police show.

But the woman, a regular watcher of the series, realised straight away he was a trickster.

She swore at him and slammed the door.

Police believe the same man is behind four attempts to get into people's homes, three in Worthing and another in Sompting.

Police spokesman Nick Sandford said: "This man carries no credentials, although he did flash some sort of card quickly in front of one householder.

"Fortunately he has not stolen anything at any of the addresses but we are warning everyone to be on guard.

"Police always show proper identification and homeowners should insist on examining their cards."

The scruffy conman is in his late 40s or early 50s and wore a sports jacket and trousers.

Anyone with information should contact Worthing police on 0845 6070999.