Communities have been warned to be vigilant after several reports of attempted burglaries in Ashford.

People have allegedly been targeted by crooks who are attempting to use the coronavirus situation to gain entry to homes.

The news comes courtesy of the Ashford Community Safety Unit (ACSU), in a post that has been shared by Public Protection Kent.

The ACSU say that the culprits have been knocking on doors and stating that they are from the Department of Health.

They then tell the potential victim that they are taking people's temperatures to help tackle the spread of the virus.

The primary targets for this scam are reportedly elderly and vulnerable residents.

An ACSU spokesperson said: "Please bring this to the attention of your families, particularly the old and vulnerable.

"If someone calls at their home, they should refuse entry and call police using 999.

"There is no scheme currently being operated to take temperatures of the general public.

"There is no 'cold calling' being carried out by health officials in relation to tackling the virus."

Kent Police have been contacted for comment.

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