HOUSEHOLDERS in North Yorkshire are warned to be on their guard if someone claiming to be a police officer knocks on their door, after a uniform was stolen today.

The North Yorkshire Police staff uniform and identity card were in a grey Ford Mondeo, registration YC09PZT, which was stolen at about 3pm from West Tanfield near Ripon.

The public is advised that the identity card says "Police Staff" in red, whereas a police officer's ID would state "Police Warrant".

A force spokesman urged anyone approached by someone with a police ID to check both the wording and the photo.

Superintendent Lisa Winward, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “I am advising people to ensure that they check the photograph thoroughly of any member of uniformed police staff or officers who call at their door to ensure they are genuine.

“If they are in any doubt about the officers identity they should ring the police on 101. A genuine police officer will not mind them doing this. If they refuse, do not let them in your house and call the police immediately on 999.”