RESIDENTS have been warned about a cold-caller who has been targeting houses on the Hallgarth estate in Kendal.

South Lakes Housing was made aware of reports that a ‘bogus door-to-door’ caller, pretending to be from the housing organisation, had been knocking on people’s doors asking for housing payments last week.

A spokesperson from South Lakes Housing said: “We were made aware of reports of bogus door-to-door callers asking residents for housing payments in the Hallgarth area of Kendal from a resident on the estate.”

Reports from residents claimed the caller was a male wearing a fake ID lanyard who tried to gain payment in advance for doing maintenance works.

The housing organisation reiterated that residents should not hand over money to anyone calling at doors and that the incident has been reported to the police.

The spokesperson added: “The police have been informed of the incident and we would urge all residents to remain vigilant and never give out any money to people calling at your door.

“All South Lakes Housing colleagues carry ID badges with them so if you are uncertain if they are genuine or not please ask to see their ID.

“If you are in any doubt, call us immediately on 0300 303 8540.”

Councillor Chris Rowley, who represents Strickland ward, said the reports were ‘worrying’ and that he would be placing a notice at this Thursday’s food share at Hallgarth Community Centre to make more residents aware.

A spokesperson from Cumbria Constabulary said: “We are aware of a concern about a cold-caller who went to the property of a person in Kendal saying he was from a housing organisation.

“The person did not let the man in.

“If people are concerned about cold callers and have any doubts of their credibility, then they are not to engage with them and politely decline their business.

“Anyone with information about any suspicious incidents can contact police on 101.”