Residents urged to check ID (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Residents urged to check ID

PEOPLE are being reminded to always check identification when anyone calls at their door.

West Wiltshire District Council has issued the warning after an incident in which an elderly man living at West Ashton Road, Trowbridge, was approached by someone claiming to be working for the council who asked for payment to cut down some hedges.

The man realised the caller was not genuine and contacted the council.

Council leader Sarah Content said: "This is a worrying incident and my thanks go to this particular resident who brought this to our attention.

"All our officers have identification and we would encourage anyone visited by a member of our staff to make whatever checks they feel are appropriate."

As well as ensuring all staff carry identification, including their name and photograph, a contact is provided who can be telephoned as a further check.

Any resident who suspects a bogus council caller is asked to report it either to the authority or the police.