A council has warned residents to be aware of scammers pretending to work with the authority to offer energy efficiency help.

Cold callers have targeted residents looking to take advantage of interest in recent Government grant funding around 'green homes'.

The scam calls are said to relate to the council offering energy efficiency measures and home insulation and Government help.

An Eden Council spokesperson said: “The council is conscious that energy efficiency measures and home insulation are very high profile at the moment, with significant Government funding being awarded.

“We have been made aware of some residents receiving cold calls from companies claiming to offer home energy assessments and claiming that they’re working in partnership with Eden Council.

“As part of Eden’s Green Homes Grant Scheme, energy companies should not be cold calling residents.

“If any householders are concerned about being approached, please contact the council on 01768 212490 so that the company can be verified."

Wendy Martin, director of National Trading Standards, said: “Criminals exploit new trends to deceive and defraud consumers and we recognise their concerns."