PEOPLE are being warned to be on their guard after a number of incidents of con merchants trying to trick their way into homes.

Taunton Deane Borough and West Somerset District Councils have received queries about whether calls and visits they have received or been arranged are genuine or not.

A spokesman for the two authorities said: "Businesses and home owners are reminded to be on their guard against people trying to trick their way into your premises.

"We know that a number of these (calls and visits) are false.

Staff from both councils and their contractors will always carry identification and introduce themselves to you.

It is your right to refuse entry if you have concerns or to take a name and phone the Deane on 01823-356356 or West Somerset on 01643-703704 to check if an individual works for them or one of their contractors.

The spokesman added: "You should not allow them in while you do so and it is not rude to shut the door and leave them outside while you do check. It is a sensible precaution."