Police are urging residents in Bradford to be vigilant following an incident where a cold caller went to a house posing as a police officer.

The male suspect attended a property on Garden Terrace, Heaton, and told the elderly homeowner that he was fundraising for West Yorkshire Police and asking for a donation.

The suspect was described as male with tanned skin, wearing a face mask, white t-shirt with ‘Police’ handwritten on the front and black trousers.

The male victim, who is in his 80s, refused to hand anything over to the suspect and they left the scene.

These incidents have been distressing for the people involved and officers are investigating the incidents, as well as urging residents to be vigilant when speaking to cold callers.

If someone receives a visit from someone purporting to be a police officer, then request to see their identification card.

All police officers, even those not in full uniform, should be carrying these.

If people are still not sure then take their details, their collar number and internal extension number and close the door, before calling 101 to check their identity.

Anyone who has witnessed anything suspicious in their area, or has any further information is asked to contact the police via 101 quoting crime reference number 13200578801 or via westyorkshire.police.uk/101LiveChat

Information can also be reported anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

For more information about doorstep crime and ways to secure your home during the darker nights, please visit https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/burglary