ELDERLY people in Wyre Forest are being warned to be extra careful before allowing people claiming to be officials into their homes.

The alert has been issued after a bogus workman carried out burglaries on Friday afternoon.

The man, who said he was from the water board, asked to be let into people's homes to carry out work and requested they turn off taps in one part of the house. In the meantime, he stole items from other rooms.

He is known to have called at addresses in Kidderminster and Stourport, claiming to be working on a burst pipe in the street or offering to do gardening work.

The white male is described as between 5ft 10in and 6ft 1in and in his mid to late 20s. He is clean shaven, with dark collar-length hair.

"People pretending to be officials can be very plausible, so it is important to check before letting them into your home," warned Kidderminster Police spokeswoman Caroline Schubert.

"A caller who is genuine will not object if you close the door to them while you contact their company and check their identity.

"Don't let them pressure you. If in doubt, call a neighbour or a friend to come round."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kidderminster Police on 01562 820888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.