POLICE in Caister are warning cold callers to steer clear of the village after a No Cold Calling Zone was launched. The scheme, which aims to combat incidents involving rogue traders, has been set up in Westerley Way and Westerley Close.

POLICE in Caister are warning cold callers to steer clear of the village after a No Cold Calling Zone was launched.

The scheme, which aims to combat incidents involving rogue traders, has been set up in Westerley Way and Westerley Close.

Officers from the Caister and Coastal Villages Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) worked in partnership with Norfolk County Council's Trading Standards team to establish the zone following concerns from local residents.

Interest in the scheme was prompted following rogue trader incidents in the area in March and in one incident two men had been seen to knock on doors asking for work.

It was later established that one householder had parted with �250 for roof work which was not deemed necessary and investigations continue into the incident.

About 30 residents attended a launch last week and Sgt Andy Brown, from the Caister SNT, said the feedback had been positive.

He said: “The visible presence of a No Cold Calling Zone helps deter potential cold callers and also shows communities are willing to work together to reduce crime.

“We've also given residents advice on what to do if they are visited by bogus callers and as a result they feel reassured and more confident about their home security.”

Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Paul Johnson completed a survey about establishing a No Cold Calling Zone following the incidents in March which found residents were in favour of having a scheme.

Householders are reminded to double check the identity of anyone cold calling at their home and always ask for quotes and references before any work on your garden or home is carried out.