AGE Concern Darlington has issued a warning to elderly residents in the town to keep on their guard when dealing with coldcallers.

Last year in the UK, 52,000 instances of bogus doorstep callers were officially recorded.

Bogus callers often try to gain access to homes by posing as charity collectors or utilities representatives.

Once inside, they try to convince the elderly person to hand over money, or they steal it.

Elderly people are targeted because they are often socially isolated, over-trusting or seen as an easy target and can be repeatedly targeted by scammers.

June Capstick, from Age Concern Darlington, said: "Before letting anyone into your home, it is always worth making sure that they are genuine and reputable.

"Anyone representing a large company should be carrying formal identification and, if you are unsure of someone's identity, the golden rule is, do not let them in.

"Theft can be emotionally and financially upsetting, so it is always worth checking what types of theft are covered under your home insurance policy."

Age Concern produces a free leaflet called A Practical Guide for Protecting and Maintaining Your Home.

Visit Age Concern in Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West, Darlington, or call 0800-169-2700 for more information.

Anyone with information about bogus callers can call the police on 0845-60-60-365, or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.