Police warning over bogus caller

Elderly residents of a South Tyneside town have been warned to be on their guard following three incidents involving a bogus official.

An 88-year-old woman was duped out of cash by the man who called at her home in Wouldhave Court, South Shields, claiming to be delivering a parcel.

He then called at a home in Livingstone Place and one in Mortimer Road but people refused to hand over any money.

Police believe it was the same man on each occasion on Wednesday.

He is described as aged in his 40s, 5ft 8in (1.73m) tall, of stocky build and wearing dark clothing.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said that people should always check the credentials of anyone claiming to be an official or tradesperson.