The warning follows two reported incidents on Tuesday – one in Rawmarsh and the other in Kimberworth Park. In both cases the callers told elderly Rotherham Borough Council tenants that they were from 2010 Rotherham and had come to do gardening work and asked for payment.

Both tenants were suspicious and did not hand any money over. The incidents have been reported to South Yorkshire Police and Trading Standards. In one incident two men were seen with a dark blue van, while in the other, just one man was seen.

2010 Rotherham Ltd - which manages, repairs and improves council housing – ensures that all its staff carry identification badges showing their name, photo and the company logo. A genuine employee will always show this badge when he or she calls. In the case of gardening work, no more than £10 would be charged and a receipt would always be given.

The advice is, if you are in any doubt, do not let anyone into your home. Close the door and ring your local housing office. A genuine caller will be happy to wait outside while you phone to confirm identification. In the case of gardening work, you can check a caller is genuine by ringing 2010 Rotherham's Eastwood headquarters on 01709 822200. Ask to speak to Julie Grayshon or Mick Lunn on ext 4347 or 2274.