ESSEX County Council has issued a warning about bogus callers following the revelation that 80 members of its staff have the legal power to enter residents' homes.

A total of 60 trading standards officers can access households that are being used as business premises, while 20 planning department workers can also enter properties to investigate if regulations have been broken.

However staff can only enter a house if they give 24 hours notice in writing.

But the authority has warned that the information could be exploited by conmen posing as council staff.

Cllr Tracey Chapman, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Residents should remain vigilant and be especially wary of any caller claiming access rights to their home.

“This is not common practice and ordinarily people would be contacted in advance of any visit. Any residents who are approached without any prior notification should be extremely cautious.

"Ask for ID and telephone the company or organisation stated by obtaining the telephone number from an independent source.  

“I would especially urge residents to keep a watchful eye over elderly residents and neighbours at this time and never to let anyone into your property who doesn’t have the necessary powers.”