A geologist could be turning up on your doorstep soon asking for a trowel of your soil, but don’t be alarmed – they’re genuine.

The British Geological Survey is to take 400 samples from Coventry as part of a project to find out what city soil is like.

The soil will be analysed for metals and acid and alkaline properties, and the information will help determine planning issues and land use strategy.

Members of the survey team will be coming to the city in the next fortnight after the city council gave permission to take samples from its from its land.

This means that there could be geologists visiting homes to take samples from gardens.

Council officials are warning householders and tenants to check that anyone asking for access has proper identification.

Bone fide operatives will have identification and will not mind if the door is closed on them while it is checked.

Special packs urging people to be on their guard against bogus callers have been distributed to elderly people through Age Concern and Victim Support.

Anyone who would like more details should call the Action Against Crime Team on 024 7683 2131.