Residents across Basildon have been warned to be on their guard against bogus council workmen offering cheap vehicle crossings.

The crossings, which normally cost around £450 to install, are ramps which enable people to drive their cars onto properties.

They can only be installed by Basildon Council or an Essex County Council contractor.

But one man, claiming to be from Basildon Council, has been reported to be calling on homes in the Long Riding area of the town, offering to install them for just £100.

That has left council chiefs warning that no officer will visit a person's home about the crossings unless they are requested.

Home owners have also been warned they may receive shoddy work if they accept a bogus caller's offer.

Councillor Loraine Rossati, chairman of Basildon Council's regeneration and environment committee, said council staff always carried an identification card with them - and would set up an appointment.

She said: "We would urge any member of the public approached by anyone offering to install a vehicle crossing to contact the police.

"We are obviously concerned that people, especially the elderly, may be tempted to part with their money and get nothing in return."

Anyone with information should call Basildon Police on 01268 532212

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