Eastleigh chiefs have warned residents and businesses to be on their guard against a bogus council official.

The man has already talked his way into two properties in the Hedge End and West End area by pretending to be from the council.

He called at a pub claiming he was on an assessment for rating purposes.

An Eastleigh Council spokesman said: "He was concerned about some damp on the wall but that has got nothing to do with rating."

About a week later a man called at a private address, claiming he was from the council checking on a whether the home was suitable for a heating grant. He carried out inspections to the outside and inside of the properties and was there for about ten minutes.

There were no reports of thefts or damage but council bosses are baffled as to why someone should want to pose as a council official.

The council spokesman said the police had been advised of the incidents and now they are warning property owners to stay on the alert.

The man is described as 5ft 10in, well-spoken, well-dressed and of Asian descent.

The council spokesman added: "Although the motive for the visits is unclear, residents are advised that they must always check ID carefully .

"They are also reminded that in most cases council staff who require access to a property will make an appointment with the occupier first."