Water firm in bogus caller alert

WATER bosses have urged homeowners to be vigilant about the threat of bogus callers over the New Year period.

Scottish Water said "callous con men" often preyed on vulnerable and elderly customers at this time of year.

The water firm said the public should not open their doors without first checking the caller's ID or letter, which could be passed through the letter box for verification.

Bill Elliot, Scottish Water's regional communities manager for Edinburgh, said: "All our employees carry identity cards, which they are more than happy to show.

"Householders shouldn't let anyone into their home until they are sure of their identity. Check through the peep hole on your door and ask them to pass their ID card or letter through the letter box."

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman added: "The public should remain alert when individuals come calling."