HOUSEHOLDERS across the district are warned to be on their guard after a man posing as a police officer tried to con a homeowner into handing over money.

The man called at a house and told the elderly occupant he was fundraising for West Yorkshire Police.

But he fled empty-handed after the householder, who is in his 80s, refused to give him any money.

The suspect is described as tanned and he was wearing a face mask, white T-shirt – with 'Police' handwritten on the front – and black trousers.

A police spokesman said: "Such incidents are distressing for the people involved.

"If you receive a visit from someone purporting to be a police officer, then please request to see their identification card. All police officers, even those not in full uniform, should be carrying these.

"If you’re still not sure then take their details – including their collar number and internal phone extension number – and close your door, before calling 101 to check their identity."

Anyone with information about the suspect or who has witnessed suspicious activity in their area should call 101, quoting crime reference number 13200578801, or visit westyorkshire.police.uk/101LiveChat.

Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

For more about doorstep crime and ways to secure your home, visit westyorkshire.police.uk/burglary.