RESIDENTS of rural areas surrounding Fareham are being urged to be on their guard against bogus callers offering to resurface driveways after a string of suspicious incidents.

Police are investigating a series of complaints from householders who have been offered low-cost or free 'Tarmacing' of drives.

Three homeowners in Curbridge, Bishop's Waltham and Park Gate have been targeted by bogus workmen in the past week.

Sgt Christopher Daw said: "I would like to advise members of the public that there appear to be people working in the area who are offering to repair drives for what may seem to be a low cost. However, these people may not be genuine and there may be associated risks, such as poor quality work at a high price.

"Before agreeing for this type of work to be undertaken, I would urge people to be satisfied they know who is carrying out the work, what

is involved and the total cost for the job. To this end, a written estimate may assist people with their decision."

The first incident was on Monday, February 7, in Chapel Lane, Curbridge, when a man who claimed he was from 'Highways Management' offered to repair a 60ft drive at a low cost.

The man, who arrived at about 1.30pm, said he had to 'get rid' of the Tarmac due to a mechanical failure.

A yellow lorry and white Transit van then arrived with workmen wearing yellow coats. The cost originally quoted then began to rise during the conversation, so the homeowner asked the man to leave.

The Highways Agency then confirmed it did not have staff working in the area.

The man was described as about 30 years old, smart, with dark hair. He was wearing a dark fleece top and had a silver-coloured estate car.

A similar incident took place the following day in Ashton Lane, Bishop's Waltham, where somebody offered to Tarmac a drive free of charge.

The caller had some form of ID and was driving a silver Volvo estate car.

Also that day, a man called at an address in Botley Road, Park Gate, at about 11am, offering to Tarmac the drive.

The man provided a 'Highway Division' business card that included a 'free phone' number, which on calling reached a man with an Irish accent.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is asked to contact Sgt Daw at Fareham Police Station on 0845 045 4545, or to call the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.