BOGUS gas officials have struck again at homes in the York area.

A man pretending to be involved in gas work taking place in Brunswick Street, South Bank, is believed to have stolen £700 from a 75-year-old resident.

The woman’s daughter, Eileen Watson, said the man claimed to be checking gas and water pressure and, because there was gas work going on in the street, the story seemed plausible and her mother did not ask for proof of identification.

She said the man checked the pressures and then gave her mother a £20 note, asking for £10 change. He said he wanted to give her the money to pay for gas used during the checks.

When she said there was no need to pay anything, the man became impatient and said he had a job to do. He then followed her to where she kept her money and she gave him the change. The following day, when she needed money, she realised £700 had gone missing.

“It’s a lot of money for an elderly couple to lose,” said Eileen.

“He was preying on elderly vulnerable people and it’s not on. People should be warned about this scam in the York area.”

North Yorkshire Police said letters had been delivered by officers to people living in the area, warning that bogus officials were about. Meanwhile, a man has also called at the home of an 85-year-old woman in Carlton Road, Sutton-on-Derwent, claiming he was working across the road and needed to turn off the gas and water.

He showed no ID but was allowed in, although it is not thought anything was stolen. A neighbour noticed two men leaving the address and also reported seeing two men calling at his home, claiming they were setting up a window cleaning round.

Police believe there are three men involved. The first is thought to be aged between 30 and 40, with a swarthy complexion, short dark hair, 5ft 8ins tall, of average build, wearing a black waterproof jacket. The second was a white man in dark clothing wearing tight-fitting jeans, about 5ft 6ins tall, thick set, with dark hair. The third was a white man, slim build, about 5ft 8ins tall, with straight brown hair, walking with a limp.

Ask for proper ID

NORTH Yorkshire police have issued a series of tips for beating the bogus officials. A spokesman said people should keep all doors locked and use a door chain, and should always ask for identification and check it properly.

“If in doubt, ask the caller to make an appointment and come back later,” he said.

“Ask a family member or friend to be there when they return. Report anything suspicious to the police and don’t be afraid of appearing rude – a genuine caller will be happy to wait. If in doubt – don’t let them in.”