HOUSEHOLDERS are being urged to be on their guard against doorstep conmen this Christmas.

Dorset Police have issued advice to people – including making sure a door chain is fitted, large amounts of cash are not kept at home, keeping contact with neighbours and family and keeping doors locked.

Inspector Richard Dixey, of Dorset Police, said: “Make sure the people you care about and your elderly neighbours are not vulnerable to bogus callers or distraction burglars this Christmas.

“Victims of bogus callers or distraction burglaries are usually elderly and live by themselves.

“The offenders will often work in pairs with one person acting as the distraction while the other enters the home.”

Residents are also being urged to use a chain when opening their door, to ask callers for identification and not sign up to work on the doorstep.

If a caller is thought to be suspicious, they should be asked to leave and then the police called on 101. If they won’t leave, call 999.