A RADLETT hairdressing salon was conned by a man who tricks staff from small businesses into handing over cash for goods he claims they have ordered.

Using his mobile phone, the man has convinced staff in shops, pubs and cafs across the county that he has cleared the payment with their manager.

He escaped with £185 from The Cutting Room, Watling Street, Radlett, after telling staff he wanted payment for some shelves he was going to deliver.

It was discovered they had never been ordered.

The incident, on Thursday, July 21, is one of 20 in recent months. Police have released a CCTV picture of a man they would like to question.

Similar cons have been reported between Friday, June 17 and Wednesday, September 7, in a bakery, laundrette, dry cleaners and a gallery.

The man is described as white, 5' 10", with dark hair and a hoarse voice. He is most often cleanly shaven and tends to wear sports or casual clothes.

Anyone with information about these deception offences can telephone the eastern area crime desk on 01992 433002, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.