Burglars posing as security experts could be gaining valuable information from home owners across the Marlborough area.

Police have warned people not to give information over the phone, because they fear the bogus callers could well be burglars amassing vital information.

They have had numerous calls from householders who say they have been contacted on the phone by a company claiming to be a security specialist.

The callers have asked for details including information on existing security devices, lighting, burglar alarms and even whether there is a dog in the house.

When some householders have asked for details of the firm, or for an adress or telephone number, the callers have refused.

Insp Bill Dowling, of Marlborough, police said he believed this could be a serious scam. "We believe these could well be burglars casing a particular property over the phone," he said.

"If they were reputable companies they certainly would be prepared to send details of their service and include an address or telephone number.

"We have already had one case of an appointment made, but not kept. We urge people not to give any information about their home, or details of when they are usually not at home, and to be very wary of anything they say.

"If anyone does receive suspicious calls we urge them to contact police."