A BOGUS caller tried to get into a house after claiming there had been a gas explosion in the street.

The householder refused to let the man into her home in East Rainton, near Houghton-le-Spring, because he didn’t have ID and police are now investigating the incident, which happened at around 6pm on Monday (November 2).

A man knocked on the door of a Fieldside home claiming there had been an explosion and he needed to get into the address to turn the water supply off.

He is described as being 5ft 8 inches tall, stocky build, he possibly had a moustache and was wearing a black woolly hat and dark clothing.

Detective Inspector Paul Stewart said: "The occupant did exactly the right thing, she asked the man for ID and did not let him into the property as he was not able to produce any.

"Bogus callers very often specifically target elderly or vulnerable people who may panic and not realise that the caller is not genuine, these offenders can often be very convincing.

"I would urge anyone who has an elderly or vulnerable relative, friend or neighbour ensures they are aware that they should not let anyone who calls at their home unannounced inside without checking their ID first.

"And, if they are presented with ID, they should check this is genuine by contacting the company or organisation the caller claims to be from."

Witnesses to the incident are asked to ring Northumbria Police on 101.