Warning over quake conmen

Conmen may use the quakes to prey on the elderly

Police in Manchester are warning elderly residents to beware of conmen who may take advantage of the recent earthquakes.

It is thought criminals may try to use the tremors as an excuse to gain access to homes while posing as officials looking for property damage.

Since Monday there have been nearly 50 quakes.

The biggest one reached 3.9 on the Richter Scale.

Identity check

Manchester councillor Basil Curley said: "Worries over these earth tremors - which have so far caused minimal damage - might mean tenants letting down their guard for a moment and giving someone access to their home.

"As always, tenants - indeed, all our residents - should never allow anyone into their home unless they are totally certain as to their identity and who they represent."

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman added: "Do not be afraid to turn people who call at your house away if you are not happy with their credentials."

There were several small tremors in the early hours of Friday morning in Manchester, bringing the total number experienced in the city close to 50.