Bogus callers are preying on pensioners in Hadlow.

Police believe a pair of burglars struck twice in the village on Friday, January 19, by posing as staff from a water company.

One man reportedly targeted two homes along Maidstone Road, claiming he needed to check water pressure due to a leak next door.

In both instances, he was allowed in to his victims' kitchens where he turned the taps on and looked under the sink.

While the pensioners were distracted, another person is thought to have the properties, with one victim later discovering cash had been stolen.

Police are now appealing for the public's help to track down suspects, describing the first man as white, with an English accent, a medium build and mousey hair.

He was wearing dark blue jeans, a green flourescent jacket and black wool gloves.

Kent Police offered the following advice to stop residents being targeted by rogue traders:

• Lock your back doors and windows before answering your front door. Never leave your front door unattended. If you need to get something, close it until you return.

• Use a spyhole and ask who the caller is through the door first, then keep the door on the chain.

• Check the caller’s identification, even if they have a pre-arranged appointment.

• If you have any doubts about whether the caller is genuine, ask them to leave and come back at a time convenient to you. Ask someone to be with you for this agreed time.

• Contact Trading Standards with their vehicle details, company name, contact details and any other information you have.

• Before allowing any work to be carried out, it is best to obtain a quote or get a second quote from a recognised firm.

• Do not pay anyone for work before it is carried out.

• Never go to the bank to draw out cash if a lift is offered by the people who knock on the door.

Anyone with information on the incidents described above is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting YY/2144/18.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.