POLICE are warning people to be on their guard after men claiming to be police officers conned elderly people into handing over cash.

Two men have been going round to houses, mainly in the Tottington and Bury areas asking to check for forged notes.

They are not dressed in police uniform and do not carry any identification.

Police Sergeant John Flowers warned Ramsbottom residents to be extra vigilant. He said: "It's all part of their trick to say they are not in uniform or carrying identification because of the nature of the job they are doing.

"The message is, don't fall for it. Police officers do not go knocking door to door checking for forged currency. Police officers carry identification at all times.

"If anybody does knock on your door always check for their ID. If in doubt keep them out and inform the police immediately."

The first offender is described as white, aged 50 years old, 5ft 8ins, fair hair, clean shaven, wearing a denim jacket and jeans.

The other man is white, clean shaven, aged 50, 5ft 6ins, wearing dark clothing.

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 8079 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.