WATER bosses are warning elderly customers that criminals posing as water board officials are operating in the North West.

United Utilities is urging people to be on the lookout against bogus callers and opportunist burglars.

A spokesman said: “Offenders call using distraction and say they are from the water board. They ask you to turn off the water and then steal from your property.”

“We very rarely call without an appointment. Always ask for an identity card before letting anyone into your home.”