A BRAVE pensioner chased away three youths posing as water board officials after they got into her home.

The elderly woman, who lives alone in the village of Staxton, in Ryedale, only realised they were bogus after inviting them into her home.

The incident has led police in the area to issue warnings to residents, especially the elderly, to beware of bogus officials.

Edwin Cooper, clerk to Staxton Parish Council, lives just a few doors away from the woman involved.

"She was very shaken up by the whole thing; it happened last week and we've only just got her nerves back to normal," he said.

"Fortunately they didn't steal anything and they didn't hurt her but this sort of thing is very distressing for the person involved."

Mr Cooper said his neighbour, who has not being named, allowed the three youths in after they said they were from the water board.

"They told her they wanted to check her water supply but she became suspicious straight away when one of them went upstairs," he said.

"She then told them to get out and after they had left the police were called; she was very shaken up by the whole thing."

Sergeant Ian Fieldsend, of Scarborough Police, said it was vital residents stayed on their guard against bogus officials.

He said: "The proper officials will be wearing proper uniforms and will carry the right identification and residents must ask for this if someone comes knocking at their door.

"These people specialise in confusing people, especially the elderly, so it is important people remain suspicious of callers until they are absolutely sure they are who they say they are.

"Elderly residents should also get into the habit of using their door chains when answering the door."

Two youths have been arrested and released on bail pending further enquiries.

reporters@ycpmalton.fsnet.co.uk