Kent Police is reminding homeowners to protect themselves from bogus callers following a number of recent incidents in Tunbridge Wells.

The first occurred on Monday, November 17 when an 88-year-old woman was persuaded to pay two men £300 to have some trees cut down.

One of the men then returned a week later claiming the cheque she gave them bounced, despite it being cashed several days earlier.

She shut the door on the man and called police.

On Tuesday, November, 25 two men called at the home of a 92-year-old woman and asked if they could enter her home to check the gas meter.

However, she refused and closed the door before contacting police.

Finally on Saturday, November, 29 two men let themselves into the home of a couple in their 80s before telling them they were there to check the gas meter.

As one of the men distracted the couple, the other is believed to have stolen £500 from a drawer in their bedroom.

"We believe these incidents may be connected and are warning people to be wary of whom they answer their doors to" - Insp Sonia Lassnig

Inspector Sonia Lassnig of the Tunbridge Wells local district policing team said: "We believe these incidents may be connected and are warning people to be wary of whom they answer their doors to.

"Representatives from water, gas and electric companies rarely visit without appointments. If there’s a real emergency, police and firefighters are likely to be present.

"By following a few simple tips, homeowners can significantly reduce the chances of them falling victim to bogus callers.

"For example, always use the spy hole on your front door and ask to see somebody’s identification if you are not confident they are who they say they are.

"You should also lock your back doors and windows before answering your front door. Thieves are known to work in pairs – one entering through the back while the other knocks at the front."

To provide information on bogus callers, call 101 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.