This chap really does need help!

Churches on Tyneside have been placed on alert after a conman persuaded clergy to part with cash so he could attend bogus family funerals. Several churches in Gateshead have been targeted in the scam, with police warning others to be on their guard. In one case a clergyman handed over £60 after being told the man could not afford to travel to his father's funeral in Jersey. The conman is said to be white, in his 40s and thin-faced. A Northumbria Police spokesman said the conman was targeting those who were used to helping people in genuine need.