The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
South Holland residents are being warned to be on their guard against rogue traders.
Spalding police received a report of an incident of rogue trading in the Wygate Park area of the town last week.
And they are now urging all of the area’s residents to be wary of any suspicious callers.
PCSO Emma Simpson said: “Residents should be extremely cautious when people cold-call at their front door and offer to carry out work to their home or garden.
“Do not let anyone who cold calls undertake any work on your property.
“If the deal sounds too good to be true then it probably is.
“You should never pay cash on the doorstep and keep an eye out for residents around you who may be elderly or vulnerable.
“Any cold calls should be reported to the police immediately.”
Officials at Lincolnshire Trading Standards have echoed those calls, especially at a time of year which is popular for home revamps.
They’ve highlighted common tactics used by rogue traders which include professional-looking advertising, cold calling and high-pressure selling.
Lisa Foster, principal trading standards officer, said: “Everyone likes to think they’re safe in their home and fortunately, in the main, they are.
“But each year thousands of unsuspecting people find themselves targeted by criminals at their own front door.
“It’s usually the vulnerable and elderly who fall victim to these confidence tricksters who then persuade them to hand over money, carry out shoddy work or steal from them.”
If you have been approached by anyone offering to carry out work that you think is suspicious, or if you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour who you feel may have been tricked, contact Lincolnshire Trading Standards on 01522 552490 or email tradingstandards@lincolnshire.gov.uk
