A fraudster who deceived a pensioner out of £20,000 has been jailed for two and a half years.

David Griffiths, of Blake Lane, Cuddington, near Northwich pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and theft in a dwelling and was jailed at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday (September 21).

The 35-year-old pleaded not guilty to a second count of fraud by false representation and a count of theft.

In May 2015, relatives of an elderly Sandiway resident contacted Cheshire Police, expressing concerns about missing money from the victim's bank account.

After examining her statements, it was found that approximately £20,000 had been withdrawn from her bank account over a six month period.

The victim had no record of this.

It was later discovered she had given her bank card to Griffiths, who pretended to be her friend, after he offered to look after her account and help with her shopping as she was getting unsteady on her feet.

Griffiths was arrested in relation to the case and was later charged with two counts of fraud by false representation and theft in a dwelling.

Investigation officer Owain Hughes said: “The victim in this case was extremely vulnerable and Griffiths preyed on her for his own personal gain.

“He pretended to be her friend and after gaining her trust he then committed this appalling act.

“I am pleased with the outcome of this case and I hope that the sentence handed to Griffiths will help bring some form of closure for the victim and her family.”