CASES of conmen calling on homes and duping residents in Burnley and Pendle are causing an increasing headache for police in the area.

Bogus callers are getting away with daylight robbery as they distract householders and then grab their goods.

Police say they are becoming increasingly concerned over the number of people being duped by callous conmen posing as officials.

Now in a bid to turn the tables on the confidence tricksters, they are distributing leaflets and posters to raise awareness of the problem and advise people what they should do if they are unsure about visitors to their home.

Crime reduction officer PC Dave Sykes said: "Burglars won't go to the trouble of breaking in if they can just knock and be invited in and unfortunately we have had a number of these distraction burglaries recently."

"It is a national problem and we are supporting the national campaign aimed at helping people feel more secure in their homes."

He continued: "Basically our advice is have a chain fixed to your door so that you can check who is calling before you let them in.

"Always ask to see an ID card and check it carefully. If they are genuine, they won't mind you asking."

He added that anyone suspicious of callers should ring the police.