PENSIONERS in Radcliffe have been warned to be on their guard against bogus callers.

Inspector John Higson of Radcliffe Township issued the caution at the latest meeting of Radcliffe Area Board.

He said: "There is concern about several teams of bogus callers, so be on your guard."

The white males usually operate in twos or threes and tend to target the vulnerable elderly who live alone. Insp Higson said that their usual ploy is to pretend they are from the water board.

Greater Manchester Police as a whole have reiterated the warnings. Their bogus officials liaison officer, Patsy Lee, said: "Bogus officials often say they are from one of the utility or public services and can be very convincing, making the occupant believe that they are providing a service or deceiving them into thinking they are a friend." She added: "Once they gain entry to the house, they steal whatever they can find of value. This is sometimes carried out in full view of the householder, knowing that he or she is powerless to resist because of their state of health, age or fear.

"Sometimes they work in pairs so that, while one caller keeps the occupier talking, the other sneaks in from another entrance and takes what they want."

To avoid becoming a victim, local householders are advised to fit a security chain and always use it when answering the door, never let anyone you don't know into your home and always accompany any new visitor around your home.

In addition you should not believe callers' stories without proof of identity and, if still unsure, check with the utility or other service concerned.

If you have any information about bogus callers you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.