FAMILIES in Lancashire are being warned to be on their guard against bogus callers in the run-up to Christmas.

The warning has come from water company United Utilities, which said conmen may seize the opportunity to target homes in the region hoping to steal Christmas gifts and cash.

Jean Leslie, from United Utilities customer team, urged householders to ask for - and check - ID closely before allowing anybody in their home.

She said: "In the run up to Christmas the thieves know all too well that many of us have presents and perhaps extra money in the house.

"In just a few minutes these bogus callers can con their way into the house, steal gifts and leave the owner's Christmas ruined.

"At this time of year families need to be extra vigilant and double check before they allow anybody into their homes, regardless of how genuine they may appear."

She added that all their staff carried ID cards and would not mind if customers demanded to see a form of identification before letting engineers in to the house.