[P]olice are advising that the public be vigilant, and to speak to vulnerable family and friends following the report of rogue traders in Dalton-in-Furness.
It was reported to police at 11:18am on Sunday, 3rd June, that two men had approach a local man in his 80’s asking to clean his driveway. The men then advise the gentleman that his garage door needed fixing and they offered to carry out that work too.
The gentleman paid the offenders £800 to fix the door, the offenders have then revisited the address on two more occasions, and on the last visit they demanded a further £600. They subsequently took the victim to the bank to withdraw the money.
The victim handed over a total of £1400 in cash. No work was carried out and the offenders did not return.
Police Constable Michael Climpson said: “We would advise the public never to agree to having work carried out by a stranger knocking on your door. Also, we advise never to agree to having work carried out because you are made to feel pressured. Remember, you are in control, you have the right to close your door on someone who is selling a service or to say no.
“If you feel you need the work carried out, look for official traders yourself or ask friends and family for recommendations.
“If you are ever made to feel intimidated or uncomfortable please call police on 101 with a description and details. Always dial 999 if a crime is in progress or in an emergency. We are here to help.
“If you have any concerns about vulnerable friends or relatives please speak to them and report any incidents to police on 101.”
If you believe you or someone you know has been the victim of such a scam, or if you have information about a potential rogue trader please contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
