Suspected con-artists have been knocking on doors in Halstead claiming to be deaf.

Police are warning people to be vigilant after receiving a number of calls.

Residents report having men and women going door to door claiming to be deaf selling paintings, but many believe they are only pretending to be deaf.

Mum Sophie Turkentine, of Mitchell Avenue, posted a warning on Facebook after having the men knock on her door.

She said: "The bloke with the paintings is going the rounds again and is closely followed by two other men "One is tall dark trousers and army jacket, the other shorter longish blonde hair.

"I've just seen them hanging around the alley off Cutter Drive/Mount Pleasant while men knocks on doors in Mount Pleasant "Just be careful everyone.

"I'm not saying that were all together but they certainly walked up together and before separating."

Other people reported having people knock on their doors in Saxon Close, Colne Road, Pretoria Road, Stansted Road, Parker Way and Bentall Close, all in Halstead, as well as in Gosfield.

Some residents reported finding white markings on their properties, although it is not known if the two occurrences are related or the meaning of the marks.

A spokesman for Essex Police confirmed they had been contacted by people in Halstead on Monday.

They added: "Officers carried out a search of the area and gave advice to the members of the public who made the reports.

"Anyone with information should call police on 101.

"Members of the public are advised to take a few simple precautions when people call at their home unannounced and they are unsure if they are genuine callers.

"Ask for identification and always check it carefully.

"Consider installing a door chain and keep the door on the chain until you have seen their identification.

"Do not leave your front door open and unattended and remember to lock the back door before opening the front door.

"Do not be pressured into letting someone into your home if you have suspicions and do not keep large amounts of cash in the house."

In March last year, residents were on alert after several reports of people claiming to be deaf were knocking on doors in Halstead, Earls Colne, Sible Hedingham and Coggeshall.