CONMEN posing as water board officials have been trying to trick themselves into west Wiltshire homes.

A 76-year-old Warminster woman was fooled by two men last Friday, July 26, who claimed they had come round to check her water pipes.

After turning on her taps they split up and one went upstairs to her bedroom and then into the attic.

When he returned both men left and the woman discovered that £20 had been stolen.

A police spokesman said: "We've had quite a few distraction burglaries recently and even though we don't think they are connected it is very worrying."

Police have launched various initiatives to crack down on people who are preying on vulnerable residents, including the Beat the Bogus Caller campaign.

At a meeting last month, officers asked Help the Aged, Age Concern and Wiltshire County Council to come up with fresh ideas to tackle the problem.

The spokesman said: "Bogus callers will pretend to be any one of a number of authentic callers such as officials from the council, gas, electricity or water companies.

"They may say they are workmen needing to make repairs or even claim to be police officers.

"Whether it's a child asking for a glass of water or someone offering to tarmac your drive, never let them in the house unless you are sure they are genuine."

Most genuine callers will make an appointment first and should carry proof of identification but police are advising people to keep the door chain on when talking to strangers.

The police spokesman said: "People should stop, chain and check. If in doubt they can always check someone's identity. If there is still doubt they can phone the police.

"Bogus callers are convincing liars and anyone can be taken in by them."

If anyone has been a victim of a distraction burglary they should phone the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

The spokesman said: "Make sure no one else becomes a victim by telling the police what has happened."