Scottish Water are warning residents to watch out for bogus callers after an elderly woman had her house broken into in Inverkip.

The incident occurred in the Allison Court area on Wednesday, 17 May. The victim reported a man broke into her home via the vestibule door and claimed he was from Scottish Water or the 'water board' carrying out work following a burst main or pipe.

It is unknown if anything was stolen, however Scottish Water has confirmed it was not carrying out any work in the area at the time.

To combat the issue, the company have reminded residents to use the three 'C's rule to help stop bogus callers; CARD, CHECK and CALL.

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Residents are advised to ask callers for their ID card, check the card carefully, and if they are still in any doubt, call Scottish Water.

Joanna Peebles, Scottish Water's regional communities team manager for the area, said: “All our employees carry identity cards, which they are more than happy to show when requested to do so. Householders shouldn't let anyone into their home until they are sure of their identity. Check through the peep hole on your door; ask them to pass their ID card or letter through the letter box. Our employees will be more than happy to wait while you check their identity.

"On occasion, when we need access to a customer's property we normally try to contact them in advance and arrange a suitable time. However, there may be occasions when we need to cold call. But all our employees carry ID badges and are happy to display these on arrival. Our staff and contractors never call at a customer's home to collect money."

(LM/MH)