Police and water companies join forces to tackle conmen

The phoney water board officials are taking advantage of the current drought to pay unwelcome visits to the unwary.

They say they have come to stem leaks and then ransack people's homes.

Police have joined with Southern Water and South East Water, along with Trading Standards, to advise residents on how to thwart these criminals.

On average, there are reports of about 10 water board distraction burglaries in Sussex each month.

But in July there were 40, including four in Polegate, two in Hailsham, two in East Hoathly, one in Lewes and one in Peacehaven.

In many cases offenders claim to be dealing with an emergency water leak or pollution, and then grabbed cash, wallets, purses or jewellery.

Superintendent Cliff Parrott said: 'While reports of burglary are going down, these despicable criminals, who prey on the elderly and vulnerable, have become very active.

'Tricking their way into homes, they quickly steal what they can.

'There may be other cases that have not been reported to us.

'We are working with water companies and trading standards to warn residents so that they do not fall victim to this type of crime.

'We are actively investigating these crimes; and urge people to contact us immediately should they become suspicious.'

If bona fide Sussex water company staff need to enter homes, they will always wear a uniform, carry ID and have a vehicle carrying their company logo.

Howard Handley, director of customer services at South East Water, said: 'We urge all customers to follow a three point check list when a caller claims to be from South East Water - check their company ID card, look for the South East Water logo on their uniform and vehicle and ask them to quote your security password if you have one.'

A password can be obtained by calling 0834 602 1724.