Message received from Avon and Somerset Police today;

Telephone Fraud Alert

Two elderly residents in the Clevedon area have been the subject of serious fraud. Both received telephone calls today, 2nd December, stating they were police officers - one from Luton and the other allegedly from Bristol. The supposed officers were very persistent and even asked one of the victims to call 191 to check their identity with a colleague. This was a clever ploy, as the line had not been disconnected and the phone was merely handed to an accomplice.

In both instances they were asked to attend their banks and were advised by the fake police that they could get around the security measures / questions. On arrival the victims withdrew thousands of pounds between them, which was later collected from their homes by a courier. A password was given by the fraudster to use when handing the money over to the courier to make it even more convincing.

This type of fraud can occur anywhere, so always be wary of unexpected calls. Never give out any personal details, especially financial account numbers or passwords. If you have any concerns, hang up immediately. Contact the bank or organisation they claim to represent using a mobile or different phone in case the offenders are still on the line. Never use any telephone numbers provided by the fraudster. Police will never ask you to attend you bank or withdraw cash.

Theft of electric fences

Between 0300 – 0345 hrs on the 01/02 December unknown offender / offenders have entered farmland located on Bath Road, Bawdrip and stolen a 15ft gate and X2 Batteries and electric fences.

Any information in relation to this theft please call 101 quoting – 5220270022.