Seven reported burglaries in the Dover district prompted a warning from the police for residents to be on their guard.

It was reported that two men, claiming to be from the water board visited elderly residents in Deal, Martin Mill, St Margaret’s, Wingham and Ash.

It happened between between 11am and 4pm on Monday, March 23, and a further incident in Ashford happened on Tuesday, March 24.

One of the men knocks on the front door and tells the victim there was a leak along the road and they need to gain entry to turn off the stopcock.

The resident is asked to turn their taps on and off.

While the victim is distracted, the second man searches the home looking for items to steal.

Cash and a handbag has been reported missing.

Police have now released CCTV images of men they want to speak to in connection with the burglaries.

One man is white, mid to late twenties, with short brown gelled hair and was wearing a blue sweatshirt.

The second was also white, about 45, with black receding hair and was wearing a navy jacket with a silver tie and woolly gloves.

One had a southern accent and the other an Irish or Liverpudlian accent.

Sgt Paul Gammon said: “While most people who call at your home will be genuine, we are reminding people to be alert to bogus callers who may try to trick their way into your home and steal from you.

“In these cases, the elderly are being targeted so we want to warn them and their families in particular.

“These men are very bold and confident but if someone calls at your home and you are not sure that they are genuine, close the door and call Kent Police for verification.

“None of our officers will mind if you do this.”

The police said residents should close the door if they are unsure.

Officers are also appealing for witnesses to come forward, particularly if they have been visited by the alleged offenders and have not yet contacted the police.

For more guidance on dealing with bogus callers visit the Kent Police website: www.kent.police.uk/advice/home/bogus_callers_rogue_traders.

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on: 01843 222289 and quote crime report number: ZY/8541/15.