A CHARITY is warning residents to beware after a woman claiming to be with the RSPCA tried to gain entry to a house.

The unknown woman tried to get into a house in Hipswell, near Richmond by saying she was with the RSPCA and had a complaint about the homeowner's dog.

She had no identification card but was carrying a clipboard and had a white van.

The incident took place between 6pm and 7pm on Tuesday, May 4. North Yorkshire Police is aware of the incident.

Leanne Plumtree, of the RSPCA, said: "The RSPCA would urge members of the public not to let anyone they don't know, arriving unexpectedly, into their home without identification.

"All RSPCA inspectors, animal welfare officers and animal collection officers wear a RSPCA uniform and carry a photo ID card.

"Anyone who is concerned about the genuine nature of anyone claiming to be from the RSPCA can call the society's national control centre on 0300-1234-999 for verification."

Police are now trying to trace the mystery woman. A police spokesman said: "People should always take care to make sure that they don't let strangers into their homes.

"They should ask for identification and then check with the relevant company. Anyone who does not have an adequate ID should be refused entry."

The suspicious woman was in her late 20s and had dark curly hair in a ponytail. She was wearing a dark bomber style jacket and dark trousers.

Anyone who can help officers trace her should contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845-6060247.