BOGUS callers have been trying to rip off vulnerable people who rely on a lifeline phone system.

Cold callers have rung a number of people in Sedgemoor claiming the Helpline service - under which clients can call for assistance in an emergency - is closing.

The conmen then offer to connect people to a new Helpline or Lifeline service for a fee.

A Taunton Deane Borough Council spokeswoman said: "Neither the Taunton Deane nor Sedgemoor service is closing.

"If a customer has any doubt about the identity of a person telephoning or visiting and claiming to work for Taunton Deane Borough Council they should request their full name and extension telephone number and ring 01823-356356 to confirm the staff member’s identity before giving any personal details.

"All staff carry ID badges with the Taunton Deane logo clearly displayed.

"Members of staff will never ask for banking details over the phone or accept cash during a home visit."

The Helpline service has been looking after people for over 25 years and has more than 18,000 alarms connected in the Taunton Deane area and also further afield.

Clients can contact the Deane Helpline by simply touching a button whether it is a major emergency or a minor worry, 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

It is designed to respond to people's call for help and it is available to anyone young or old who lives in the Taunton Deane area for a weekly fee.