A suspected bogus caller in a duffle coat reportedly barged his way into an elderly man's home in Folkestone last night, after claiming to be from the water board.

Police officers are reminding residents in Folkestone to be alert after the suspicious incident in Broadfield Road.

At around 6pm, a man reportedly to have knocked on the door of a property and pushed his way inside.

The victim, in his 80s, told police that the man went into his kitchen and turned on the taps before he was able to usher him back outside.

Inspector Julien Lawton from the Community Safety Unit in Folkestone said: "Incidents like this are extremely worrying and whilst nothing was believed to have been stolen, we question the legitimacy of this caller.

"We strongly urge all residents to be careful about who they let into their homes.

"Please don’t allow anyone you don’t know or were not expecting to enter your property.

"Don’t be afraid to ask them for identification and check they are genuine first before allowing them inside.

"We understand this is sometimes difficult and vulnerable people are often targets for bogus callers.

"With this in mind we ask you to be vigilant and look out for your neighbours who may be more at risk than you.

"In this instance the victim was not expecting anyone from the water board and luckily nothing was taken."

The man is described as around 5ft 9ins tall, white, clean shaven and of medium build. He was said to be wearing a light-coloured duffle coat and a light-coloured hat.

He did not appear to have any ID and was not wearing a uniform.

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Kent Police on the East Kent appeal line 01843 222289 quoting reference 22-1472.