POLICE are warning people especially in the Bishops Castle and Craven Arms area to be on their guard against rogue traders.

These people can often appear very plausible and usually cold call according to police.

Often they will offer to do work that in many cases does not need doing using poor quality materials.

The advice is never to buy on the doorstep and not to let cold callers into the house as they can be very difficult to get rid of even if asked to leave.

Often the rogue trader will offer to do work on a drive or the garden and will often ‘point out’ urgent work that needs doing to the house.

They will often say that they are in the area for a short time and offer what appear to very good discounts.

It is not uncommon to ask for money up front. If they return to do the job it is often of poor quality and with a much bigger bill than was expected.

Police say that if people talk to cold callers it is best done through an intercom and they should never to agree to or pay for work on the doorstep.

There is a legal entitlement to cancel within 14 days any purchase of goods or services made in the home.

If anyone thinks they have been deceived or has concerns about a trader they should call 101 or trading standards at Shropshire Council on 0345 678 9000.