POLICE have urged householders to be on their guard against cold callers offering to help out during the lockdown.

In a warning to the public, a spokesman for Dorset Alert said: "Unfortunately, there may be some who will take advantage of the current situation, so we are urging everyone to continue to be vigilant in regards to cold callers both on the phone and at the doorstep.

"In particular please be wary of anyone coming door-to-door and offering to do shopping. There are many community groups springing up and most will be genuine, but make sure that you can verify they are legitimate. You should pre-arrange payment directly with the shop and not pay cash or give bank details to the person delivering your shopping."