A HOUSING association in South Gloucestershire is warning its tenants to be wary of bogus callers.

Merlin housing Association is asking residents to be extra careful after a distraction burglary in Kingswood.

Two conmen tricked their way in to a house after claiming to be from the housing society. The pair claimed that they needed to check water pressure in the property but while one of them distracted the resident, the other searched the property for money.

Merlin works manager Martin Daymond said: "You should always ask to see someone’s identity before letting them into your home. "If you are in doubt, don’t let them in.

"All Merlin staff and those of our contractors carry identification cards and will be happy to wait while you check their details."

He said residents should call Merlin’s repairs line, on 0800 953 0340, to check a caller’s details.

Added Mr Daymond: "If the visit is outside of office hours and no-one is available to verify them, then tell them it is inconvenient and that you will rearrange the visit."