POLICE are warning people to be on their guard after a spate of bogus callers.

Cash was stolen from elderly people in Chilton, Ferryhill Station and Metal Bridge after they allowed men, who claimed they were from the water board, to enter their homes at about 6pm on Friday and Saturday.

Last week, The Northern Echo reported five incidents across the county that police now believe were carried out by the same men.

All the victims were elderly and were fooled by the thieves' claim they needed to check their homes because of water mains damage or leaks at neighbouring properties.

Inspector Kevin Weir, of Newton Aycliffe police, said: "We would encourage people to carefully check callers' identity before allowing them into their home, if they are still unhappy they should close the door and telephone the appropriate authority, genuine callers will not mind."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on (01325) 314401.