BEWARE bogus council officials after reports of a cold caller in the Callands area.

Warrington Borough Council have issued the warning after an older man who looked scruffy called at the property claiming to come from the council saying it had received complaints and the homeowner's conifers needed to be cut back.

The caller did not identify himself and was not carrying an ID card and following further conversations left the property.

Clr David Keane, executive board member for environment and public protection at the council, said: “We would like to stress to all residents that this caller was not a council employee. All council employees carry an identification card with their name and photograph on them.

"Anybody approached by somebody claiming to be from ‘the council’ should ask to see this identification. Officers would always write to residents to make an appointment or inform them of their intention to visit regarding a matter such as this.

“The resident was right to be cautious about this caller and did the right thing by not engaging in any business with them and reporting it to Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service. We would like to reassure residents this incident is being fully investigated by our Trading Standards Team.

“We would ask that residents remain vigilant and alert and refuse entry and requests for personal information unless they are absolutely sure it safe to provide this information.”

To report a scam or for general consumer advice please contact Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or visit adviceguide.org.uk/.