ELDERLY residents were once again warned by police this week to be on their guard against bogus callers.

It follows an incident in Widnes in which two men called at the home of an old lady and convinced her she needed a new front garden fence.

They quoted her a cost of £150, accepted a cash deposit and disappeared.

Joe Buzza, Halton's crime prevention officer said: "She parted with £90 straightaway and agreed to pay the remaining £60 on completion of the work. Needless to say, the men have not been seen since."

The two callers were both white males.

The first was 6ft 1ins tall, in his late 30's, stocky build with short dark hair and several top teeth missing.

His accomplice was 5ft 6ins tall, in his late 20's, medium build with short dark hair.

They were travelling in a large white van.

"If work like this needs to be done, get several written quotes from reputable firms," advises Pc Buzza. "Then decide which one is best. Do not part with any money until any work required is completed satisfactorily."

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