Police in Shropshire today warned people not to fall for a scam by cold callers claiming to be selling advertising or editorial space in “police” publications.

Officers received a report from a concerned member of the public in Whitchurch, who had been contacted by a man claiming to be from a neighbouring police force.

The man then asked if the victim wanted to place an advert in a police publication, which he claimed would be circulated to farmers in the area, promoting crime prevention advice.

West Mercia Police says it does not employ cold calling tactics.

Constable Howard Lewis, of Whitchurch Police, said: “Fortunately on this occasion, the victim did not give any bank details to the caller as their suspicions were raised and they reported the incident to us.

“Persons claiming to be calling from the police and asking for financial details should be treated with suspicion, no details given out and the incident reported to us on 0300 333 3000.”

He said the same awareness should be applied to anybody who might call and ask for financial or other personal details.

“Anybody being asked to support or take part in any local initiative financially from a cold phone call should be wary,” Constable Lewis added.

“Whoever the person calling might claim to be, whether from an emergency service, charity or other local initiative, agree to nothing from a phone call and do not give any banking details out.”