Dyfed Powys Police is asking people to report any suspicious activity in a bid to make criminals' lives difficult. 

During this time of the year, the force traditionally sees a rise in distraction burglary and rogue trader crimes.

Recent intelligence suggests people involved in these crimes are looking at targeting the Pembrokeshire area.

PC Sue Blacklaw-Jones said: "These criminals tend to prey on our elderly and vulnerable members of communities.

"Distraction burglars use a number of guises and trick themselves into people's homes and then steal money and valuables.

"Rogue traders charge people extortionate money for little or no work and can often be very intimidating and forceful. 

"We are asking friends and neighbours to help us by being vigilant.

"Please report to us if you see anything suspicious or out of the usual - this can be people cold calling or a van parked near an elderly person's home. 

"Dyfed Powys Police is a low crime area and by working together we can keep it that way."

Relatives and friends of vulnerable people should talk to them about not letting people into their home. 

PC Blacklaw-Jones added: "We don't want to scare people, which is why the message can come across better from someone they know.

"It is just a case of giving them the confidence to not let someone into their home unless they are happy with who the person is.

"Genuine callers do not mind waiting while their ID is checked or will call again, a bogus caller is not likely to stay around once challenged. The message is simple - if in doubt, keep them out."

Simple advice is: stop - look through window or spy hole, do you know the person calling?; chain - put the chain across your door; check - check the ID of the caller.

Anyone with information can contact Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The Dyfed Powys Police Bobby Van scheme will support the vulnerable groups in our communities by supplying and fitting locks, door chains and spy holes which will improve home security.  This service is free for the elderly. For more information, contact the police on 0845 330 2000.