POLICE have urged residents to beware of bogus callers after thieves tricked their way into the home of an 80-year-old woman.

Three men claiming to be from the water board called at the pensioner's home, in Catterick Village, North Yorkshire, at 3.15pm on Thursday.

The men gained entry after claiming they needed to check the supply because the water had turned blue. Once inside, they stole a small amount of cash.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "We would urge people not to allow access to anyone who does not have identification.

"If they are really who they say they are, they will not mind waiting while you check by ringing the number on the card.

"We would also ask residents to be on the look-out if they have elderly neighbours. You are not being nosey if you ask people what they are doing."

One of the men is described as in his late 20s, with black hair. He was wearing a navy jacket and trousers.

The Northern Echo has launched a Doorsteppers campaign to crack down on bogus tradesmen and cold callers in the region.