A bogus care worker is targeting elderly and vulnerable people in Stockton.

A woman claiming to be from a company providing care services has targeted at least three homes in the Durham Road and Norton Road areas.

Just before 10am on Tuesday a woman questioned the occupant of a house, who became suspicious, causing the woman to leave.

At another house half an hour later a woman entered the property, saying she was from a caring services company and that the nurse had sent her to organise cleaning.

The occupants were awaiting visits from nurses at the time the woman called.

A similar incident happened later that day when a woman stated that she was a care worker in order to get in to a third property.

Police emphasise that during these incidents nothing was stolen. However the incidents are being treated as suspicious.

The woman police want to speak to is white, in her 40s with dark hair.

She is slim and wore a dark top and trousers.

Acting Detective Sergeant Hayley Miller said: “We would always urge people to check the identity of strangers attending their homes by asking to see identification.

“If in any doubt do not let them in and ask them to make an appointment through their agency.

“If people have any serious concerns they can also contact the police.”

Anyone with any information should call Acting Detective Sergeant Miller on 01642 302226 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.