Burglars won’t go to the trouble of breaking in to your home if they can just knock on your door and be invited in, local police officers are warning. They advise that Herefordshire residents should always be on their guard when anyone they’re not expecting - a man, a woman or even a child - turns up at their door.

Bogus ‘officials’ may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, gas board, health authority or another organisation.

This warning was issued after an elderly woman was sexually assaulted in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. The woman, over the age of 70 was assaulted on Tuesday, May 3rd, between 11am and 11.30am.

A man knocked on the woman’s front door and asked to enter the house. He then proceeded to sexually assault her before he fled the scene.

This incident is being investigated by the police. Detective Inspector Justin Taylor, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is undoubtedly a concerning incident for the victim, as well as the local community, however I would like to offer my assurances that a thorough and robust investigation is underway. We are working to identify the offender as quickly as possible and ask if anyone saw any suspicious activity in or around the Old Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, at the time of the incident to contact police.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the bravery of the victim in reporting this traumatic incident to police. We are taking all of the necessary steps to ensure she is fully supported and looked after by specially trained officers throughout the investigation.

He added: “As always we would like to remind the local community to be mindful when answering the door to strangers. If you feel unsure or uncomfortable you don’t have to answer the door, you can always ask them to come back when you have a friend or relative with you.”

If someone calls at your door:

• Check to see who it is by using the spy hole if you have one, or look through a front window.

• Always put the chain on before you open the door. If you don’t have a chain it’s a good idea to get one - they don’t cost much.

• With PVC doors, it can be difficult and costly to fit a door chain. Check with the manufacturer before you buy a PVC door, that a chain will be fitted.

• Fire safety - only put on your door chain as you answer the door - don’t keep it on all the time as this could delay your exit in case of fire.

• Look at their clothing. Some official callers will have a uniform bearing their organisation’s name or symbol.

• If you don’t know the caller, ask to see their identity card. Check it carefully, and keep the chain on while you do this. Genuine callers won’t mind if you close the door while you do this.

• Some public utility services (e.g. water, electricity, gas) operate a password system. Contact your local branch to find out more.

• If you’re still not sure, ask the caller to come back later. You can then check their story by phoning the organisation or company they claim to represent. Look up the number in your own telephone directory. Don’t rely on the telephone number on their card - it may be the number of a crook’s partner.

• Bogus callers sometimes work in pairs. Beware of one distracting you while the other steals your property. The best practice is not to let them in.

• Ensure your back door is locked if you are answering the door to someone you don’t know.

• Watch out for anyone who says they’re in a hurry. Don’t let them pressure you. If in doubt, call a neighbour or friend.

• If you have any suspicions at all, don’t let them in.

• If you’re still not happy, phone the police - dial 101 and tell them what’s happened or if you think a crime is in progress 999. Also tell your neighbours.

Always put the chain on and use the spy-hole before you open the door.

Never let anyone in unless you are absolutely sure they are genuine.

If you have any information on crime, you can report to 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111