West Yorkshire residents urged to be vigilant as cold callers dressed as police target homes

One "distressing" incident happened in Garden Terrace in Bradford.

A male suspect knocked at the door of a property and told the elderly homeowner that he was fundraising for West Yorkshire Police, asking for a donation.

The suspect was wearing a white t-shirt with ‘Police’ handwritten on the front and black trousers.

He is described as having tanned skin and he was wearing a face mask.

The male victim, who is in his eighties, refused to hand anything over to the suspect and they then left the house.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "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 you receive a visit from someone purporting to be a police officer, then please request to see their identification card.

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

"If you’re 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 the Live Chat.

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