TWO men were seen banging on windows and demanding cash from people inside a house during a string of disturbing cold caller incidents in Prestonpans and Cockenzie and Port Seton.

Residents have been warned to be on the alert after the men were spotted going door-to-door trying to access properties by claiming they were selling goods.

In one incident, reported to police, then men were seen banging on the windows of a house in a threatening manner and demanding money from the occupants.

Police have urged locals to be vigilant following reports a string of incidents on Tuesday evening on South Crescent, Preston Cross Cottages and Preston Road in Prestonpans, as well as The Promenade and Avenue Road, Cockenzie and Port Seton.

The men are both described as being white, in their mid-twenties, of medium height and build, with English accents and were carrying large black holdalls.

One of the men is described as having ginger hair and was wearing a blue and cream tracksuit, with the other having dark hair, tanned skin, a tattoo of writing on the right side of his neck and was wearing a khaki jacket.

Sergeant Derek Macdonald of Tranent Police Station said: "Thankfully, the men did not gain access to anyone's house and we are very grateful to the public for their vigilance in reporting these incidents to us.

"Never let anyone you do not know and are not expecting into your property. It is your home and you are under no obligation whatsoever to do so if you are not completely certain of someone's identity and intentions.

"If you are made to feel uncomfortable or intimidated call a friend, neighbour, relative or report suspicious behaviour to police via 101. Always dial 999 if you see a crime in progress.

"We continue to conduct enquiries into these incidents and would urge anyone who may have information which can help to contact us as soon as possible."

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3161 of 15th May, or report this anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.