Angus residents are being warned to keep their guard up after reports of cold callers working in the area.

In March, bogus workmen called to the door of an elderly couple and claimed they noticed loose slate on their roof.

After convincing their way inside, they persuaded the couple repair works were urgently needed. At one point, they presented a handful of live maggots and claimed they were woodworm discovered in the wall cavities.

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The couple were convinced and, during the course of the so-called work, paid out £5,000.

A similar call by workmen was made at an address in Westmuir on Wednesday, 05 April. On this occasion, the bank intervened after becoming suspicious of their elderly customers' request to withdraw £3,000.

Trading Standards said they believe the workmen may be part of organised criminal groups operating across the UK, targeting older or more vulnerable consumers.

For information on how to protect yourself from cold callers, visit www.angus.gov.uk

(LM/CD)