POLICE in Skipton have issued a warning to older residents to be on their guard against cold callers offering to carry out work.

It follows reports made to police of men in a white van approaching at least one property in Carleton offering to carry out work.

Police say cold callers can deliberately target older residents and prey on their trusting nature and vulnerability. They may overcharge for work and in some cases, fail to carry out the work at all.

Officers are asking residents to keep an eye out for their older neighbours and friends and report any suspicious callers to the police by calling 101.

They are also asking for any information about the latest suspected incident in Carleton from anyone who may have been approached by men driving a white van, to contact North Yorkshire Trading Standards on 03454 04 05 06.

Meanwhile, anyone who feels threatened by a caller at the door should call police on 999.

Advice is to 'lock, stop, chain and check'.

Lock all doors – even when you are at home.

Stop before you open the door, ask them who they are.

Chain always use a door chain or spy hole

Check not sure who they are – do not open the door