POLICE this week warned residents in the Lochgelly area about reports of bogus workmen trying to target elderly residents.

A member of the Cowdenbeath Community Police team said: "Unfortunately there have been reports of bogus callers/workmen operating in the Lochgelly area who have targeted elderly residents.

"People should be beware of dealing with these people and it is better to not engage with cold callers."

Police Scotland advise: "We DO NOT recommend dealing with cold-callers for property maintenance and home repairs. Anyone can be fooled as these people are professional con artists. However, the over 60s are often specifically targeted.

"What types of doorstep criminals are there? There are two main types:Bogus callers try to get into your home or obtain personal details by pretending to be someone they’re not, including council staff, charity collectors, meter readers and police officers. In reality, they are criminals trying to steal money and valuables.

"Rogue traders usually cold-call, claiming to be workers offering to sell services, make repairs or carry out work on your house, garden or driveway. In reality they charge inflated prices for shoddy or unnecessary work".