POLICE have warned parents that a bogus health visitor might be targeting families in the New Forest.

It follows an incident in which a woman living at Norley Wood, near Lymington, received a visit from someone claiming to be from a local doctor’s surgery.

The caller said she wanted to weigh the householder’s children and tried to push the door open but was refused entry.

A police spokesman said: “This is a very unusual incident and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or been approached by this woman.

“It could be that she is genuine, although her behaviour is a cause for concern and advice may need to be given.

“Until we have identified who she is we would urge all Lymington residents to exercise caution when receiving any unsolicited callers and always ask for ID.

“Parents of young children should be especially cautious and should contact us immediately if they have concerns.”

The caller, who spoke with a Scottish accent, is described as white, aged 20-30 years with short blonde hair that might be a wig. She was wearing a knee-length grey overcoat and black trousers and was carrying a black briefcase or folder.

Ring Lymington police on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.