PUBS have been warned to be on their guard after a serial con man struck several times in Hampshire.

A nationwide search has been launched for the man who has conned tens of thousands of pounds out of landlords around Britain.

The fraudster is known to have targeted at least three pubs in Hampshire at Winchester, Southampton and Bishop's Waltham.

Officers leading the manhunt say the con artist is travelling up and down the country staying at pubs that also provide accommodation and stealing property including cheque books.

He then moves on to another pub, assuming the identity contained in the stolen goods that he uses to run up large bar and food bills, spending up to £120 per night on drinks alone.

Using just one cheque book he spent £10,000.

Det Sgt Dave Trotter said: "We know he has struck in Hampshire in at least three different places. We would not rule out that he would go back to the area either. He certainly has been on the south coast and we would urge landlords and publicans to be on their guard.

"Basically he presents the landlord with a big cheque that he then uses to get cashback from and pay for services he uses. This man has been stealing from people all over the country and we need the public's help to catch him."