RESIDENTS in a North Yorkshire town have been urged to be cautious after vulnerable people were targeted by potential conmen.

North Yorkshire Police said two men gained access to a house in Harrogate while pretending to work for a local charity.

However, further investigation showed they were not representing the organisation, and were believed to have been looking for potential burglary or robbery victims.

A spokesman for the force said: "The charity itself supports older and vulnerable people to maintain their independence at home. They provide gardening, decorating and odd job services.

"The staff for this charity travel in a branded van and wear polo shirts branded with the charities name, and of course have ID with them. The two unknown males involved in this incident handed over a legitimate charity leaflet to the resident before looking around their home."

The police spokesman urged residents to check identification of anyone cold calling and if in doubt, contact the charity direct using their official number, not a number provided by visitors.

Anyone who has seen or heard anything suspicious should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101.