TRADING standards officers have renewed warnings about bogus security companies which claim to have links with the police.

In one instance, an elderly woman received a call from one of the companies and when she asked if her husband could listen in, the caller hung up.

A spokesman for Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council said similar reports had been made from across east Cleveland.

Often the companies claim they are working in the area and come up with offers of "free" products or say that they want to complete a questionnaire to check on home security.

Trading standards officials stressed that consumers considering purchasing security equipment should always obtain different quotes and check on terms and conditions. They added that Cleveland Police do not give their support to companies of this kind.

Anyone with concerns can contact Michelle O'Rourke, trading standards support officer, on (01642) 771215 or Langbaurgh Crime Prevention on (01642) 302071.