People in Central Bedfordshire are being warned about scam telephone calls being made by anonymous callers.

A spate of calls have been made offering a free survey to have solar panels installed in homes across the county.

The callers claim to be from Bedfordshire or Bedford Advice Centre, trying to entice them into having a survey carried out by an agent. In some cases they claim to already be on their way.

Councillor Brian Spurr, executive member for community services, said: “These callers may try to offer you an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed by saying that it is only available for a short time, and to intimidate people into making a hasty decision and handing over personal and financial details.

“However, if you are interested in having solar panels fitted to your home, our advice would be to shop around by contacting legitimate local businesses and never take what an unsolicited telesales caller tells you for granted.”

The callers appear to be focusing on Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding area, but Trading Standards officers are warning people across Central Beds to be vigilant against potential scammers.