The caller had phoned homes in Bramley claiming that they were ringing on behalf of npower.

They said they could reduce electricity bills for the over-70s as part of a Government-approved scheme but needed the customers' bank details to proceed.

However, no one from npower made any such calls and when they were alerted the company called in West Yorkshire Police.

Police are now warning other people not to fall prey to the scam.

Insp Mark Bownass, of the West Inner Neighbourhood Policing Team,
said: "This has clearly been an attempt to get hold of people's bank details to commit fraud and we would advise people never to give out such sensitive information.

"The company has assured us that it does not do business in this way and we would advise anyone who receives such a call not to part with any information and to contact the company named via their main switchboard number in the phonebook or on their website."

* Anyone who receives such a call should also contact their local police on 0845 606 0606.