CONMEN are bluffing their way into houses in Middlesbrough - and filling their pockets.

Posing as council workmen, they seem to be targeting the town's Berwick Hills Estate and surrounding area.

Following a spate of walk-in thefts, housing staff in east Middlesbrough are advising tenants: don't let your guard down over Christmas.

Brian Trodden, area housing manager with Middlesbrough Council, said: "We would warn householders to be wary of any caller who turns up on their doorstep without prior arrangement and to always ask for identification. Any genuine callers will have identification with them which includes a photograph.

"If householders have any doubts, don't let them in and contact us or the police.'