POLICE have issued a warning to families after bogus officials tried to con their way into homes.

Callers, posing as gas or water company workers, have tried to talk their way into houses in Hartlepool twice this week.

They were turned away by vigilant residents, but police warn there has been a spate of similar incidents.

One bogus caller tried to con his way into a home on the Rift House Estate, on Wednesday evening. Another had struck the day before, in the Dyke House area, at about 5pm.

The caller on Tuesday was about 40, 5ft 5in, and well built.

He was wearing glasses, a blue Nike cap, and a waterproof jacket. No description is available for Wednesday's caller.

If anyone is suspicious of a caller they are advised not to let them in, and to ask for identity.

If residents are unsure, they are advised to question the person, and to check them out with the company they say they are from.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Hartlepool Police Crime Fighters hotline in confidence on (01642) 302129.