RESIDENTS in Alcester and Bidford are being warned to be on their guard over fraudsters claiming they’re entitled to Council Tax refunds.

An Alcester resident has already been contacted by someone pretending to be from the council, who told them they would be making a personal call to their house to refund an overpayment of Council Tax.

Stratford District Council has said that any refunds will always be paid directly into the paying bank account the tax was taken out of, or it that’s not possible, a cheque will be sent to the account payer, refunds are never hand delivered.

Dave Webb, head of enterprise, housing and revenues, said: “If any callers come to your house claiming they are from the district council and that you are owed a refund for Council Tax and you cannot establish their identity by calling the district council, or if you have any doubt regarding their identity we advise you call the police on 101.”

All Stratford District Council employees carry staff identity cards, and they should be happy for residents to call the council to check their authenticity.

Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards has been informed of the incident, and anyone with concerns can call Stratford District Council on 01789 267575.