POLICE in Newton Abbot are urging residents to be aware of cold callers operating in the area.

There have been reports of doorstep traders and canvassers calling at properties.

A police spokesman said: ‘While it is not illegal for traders to cold call, this is often a sale method used by rogue traders and cowboy builders.

‘We strongly advise consumers never agree to buy anything or to have work done by a trader who cold calls.’

In the past, there have been incidents locally where traders have carried out unnecessary work or deliberately damaged property to make more work.

They have overcharged for work or taken money for work when none has been carried out.

In extreme cases, victims have been driven to banks or cash points to obtain money under duress.

Victims have also been bullied into having work done and paying money.

Anyone who has recently agreed to have work done by a trader who knocked on the door should be eligible for a 14-day cooling off period in which to cancel the contract with no further payments and may be entitled to a refund of any money paid.

Police are asking residents to report any cold calling on the non-emergency 101 number or call the Citizen’s Advice consumer advice service on 03454 040506.

Anyone who may have vulnerable or elderly neighbours is asked to keep an eye out to see who is attending their property and report anything suspicious to police.

Further help and advice is available from tsadvice@devon. gov.uk or 101@devonandcornwall. pnn.police.uk.