PEOPLE are being warned to be on their guard against bogus calls from people claiming to be from Wiltshire Council.

Wiltshire Police has received reports from members of the public of nuisance calls recently, in which the caller claims to be from the council and will become abusive if challenged.

Also, the calls will come up with the council phone number on phone displays or via 1471 - so they appear genuine.

Detective Constable Scott Barrett, from Wiltshire Police, said: "We can confirm that these nuisance calls are not originating from Wiltshire Council.

"If you receive a call from someone saying they are from the council and you are not sure if they are genuine then please take the caller's details, hang up and phone the council to check.

"Do not give personal, bank or credit card details over the phone."

Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of fraud should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

"We are investigating these calls and are determine to find the source," Det Con Barrett added.

"If you have any information to help us with our enquiries please call me on 101 or, if you wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."