Elderly residents in Ashford are being warned to be vigilant following reports of bogus callers posing as water board officials.

Police say on Tuesday December 16 between 3.30pm and 4pm two men knocked on the door of the Chart Road home of an 82-year-old man and his wife.

The men said that they had to check the water supply as there was a local water leak. One man went into the kitchen with the elderly man and it is believed at some time the second man went into a bedroom.

The couple became uneasy and asked the men to leave but later realised the bedroom had been searched although it is believed nothing was stolen.

The first man is described as white, aged 18-20, small build, with short dark brown straight hair, clean shaven, wearing a dark coloured jumper and spoke with what is thought to be an Irish accent.

The second was white, a similar age, slim build, with short fair hair, was clean shaven and wore a grey jumper and trousers. He spoke with a similar accent.

The second incident happened on Wednesday December 17 in Jemmett Road, Ashford, around 2pm.

An 87-year-old man answered the door of his flat to two men who said they were from the water board and wanted to check the pipes. The first man stayed in the kitchen, saying he was looking for the isolator tap.

The second man went to check the hot water tank. They both left soon afterwards and later the occupant discovered that keys had been taken.

One of the men is described as white, aged 18, with wavy hair, a thin face and wearing a boiler suit.

Anyone with information is asked to call South Kent police on 01303 289189 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.