A man pretending to be a council worker has been trying to con his way into Elmbridge residents’ homes.

Elmbridge Council is keen to make the public aware of procedures authorised staff will use should they call at a home address.

In the majority of genuine cases, a council employee will telephone and make an appointment so the customer will be expecting them and they will always show their identification.

If for any reason an employee from the council needs to call at a home without a prior appointment they will show their identification and not mind waiting for the homeowner to call the council and verify their identity.

People are also advised to ensure their back door is locked and put on the chain before opening the front door.

PC Mark Howells, crime reduction adviser for Surrey Police, said: “Bogus callers have been known to use a number of guises when attempting to trick their way into people’s homes.

"They may say they are from the waterboard, council or the gas company, but the rule is always the same - never let anyone into your home without confirming their identity.

“We have produced information cards which contain handy telephone numbers on one side and doorstep safety advice on the other.

"If you see anything suspicious, please contact Surrey Police immediately and keep an eye out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

“We would prefer to have 20 calls about suspicious behaviour rather than one later call from a victim of distraction burglary.”

For more information about the information cards, call PC Howells on 0845 1252222.

For further general information, contact the community safety team on 01372 474393/4398/4399 or email communitysafety@elmbridge.gov.uk.

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