Community police are issuing a warning to Davidson’s Mains residents, following a nearby bogus caller incident.

An 89-year-old woman answered her door in Pennywell Villas in Muirhouse to a man claiming to be from Scottish Water, requesting access to her property to check the water supply.

However, a neighbour called on the woman and challenged the suspect who then left the address.

The incident is one of several reports of bogus callers across the Edinburgh area and police are warning residents to be vigilant.

A police spokesman stressed that anyone who believes they are being pressured by a caller looking to come into their home should contact officers immediately.

He said: "In all of these cases, the suspects posed as utility workers and so it is essential that our communities are entirely sure of a caller's identity before allowing them access to your property.

"The public should also be aware that genuine employees for utility companies no longer use terms such as 'water board' and will provide photographic identification which can be checked and verified before granting entry.

"Only police and fire officers are legally allowed to force entry to a property in an emergency situation.

"Our communities are also urged to be vigilant for any suspicious people calling at the door of elderly neighbours and report any concerns to their local policing teams."

Bill Elliot, Scottish Water's regional communities manager for the area said: "All our employees carry identity cards and letters, which they are more than happy to show when requested to do so.

"Householders shouldn't let anyone into their home until they are sure of their identity.

"Check through the peephole on your door; ask them to pass their ID card through the letter box.

"Our employees will be more than happy to wait while you check their identity.

"If you're on your own and feel that you need more support then call a neighbour or a friend, and if you are at all worried about a caller, then please contact the police straight away.

"The advice is easy to remember - just three C's - card, check and call."

The suspect is described as white with a large build, round face and dark hair.

He was wearing black clothing and a florescent yellow sleeveless jacket.

Anyone who remembers seeing the suspect at the address in Muirhouse, or who has any information, can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131.

Alternatively, they can call the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.