Take care when it comes to letting strangers into your home.

The message follows a number of incidents reported to police of bogus callers operating in Sittingbourne in recent weeks.

The offenders offer services such as hairdressing or gardening, and then ask to borrow money for various reasons, including ill family members or needing money for food or heating.

They promise to pay the money back but do not return.

Police spokesman PC Gemma Windley said: “Fortunately Sittingbourne is a very safe place to live and work, but there is no harm in ensuring you are doing all you can to protect yourself against crime.

“Quite often, these bogus callers appear very genuine and have stories that tug on the heartstrings, meaning many well-meaning people hand over money in an attempt to help. We understand many residents will never see it again after one of these encounters.

“I’d encourage everybody to take a few moments to assess the situation they are in before making any split-second decisions to give cash to strangers. The callers may work alone or in pairs.

“If you have any doubts about whether the caller is genuine, ask them to leave and come back at a time that is convenient to you and when you have had a chance to ask someone to be with you.

“Representatives from water, gas and electric companies rarely make house calls without appointments.

“Genuine callers will carry identification for the organisation they work for.

“If you are not expecting the caller and they do not carry an ID card, do not let them in.

“Genuine companies will not object if you tell them you will be checking they are legitimate and will call them back later.

“It’s vital to make others aware when there are scam artists operating in your area, so sharing this advice with elderly friends and neighbours may prevent another person from becoming a victim of crime.”

If you are concerned about a caller on your doorstep, call Kent police on the non-emegency number 101, or dial 999 if it is an emergency