Police warning over rogue traders

POLICE are warning residents in the Hunstanton, East Ruston and Great Yarmouth areas to remain vigilant after reports of men acting suspiciously.

In the first incident in Clarence Court, Hunstanton at about 11am today a white transit van with green, yellow and red on it was in the area with the occupants claiming to be collecting scrap metal.

The second incident took place in Chequers Street, East Ruston at around 2:45pm. Three men in a white transit van were attempting to sell fish door to door. One man was described as about 45-years-old, of large build and wearing a white Adidas top. The second man was described as about 20-years-old, wearing a navy jacket with yellow writing and with mousey blond hair.

Finally a man in his mid 30s was acting suspiciously in Purley Court, Great Yarmouth at around 3:30pm. After offering cheap DVDs for sale he left the area in a small yellow car. He was described as being short, of stocky build, with gingery blond hair and was wearing green jumper.

Norfolk County Council's Trading Standards officers advise residents not to agree to have work done or buy goods from someone who calls unannounced.

Often such traders don't provide full names, trading addresses or contact telephone numbers, resulting in it being virtually impossible to trace them if there are any problems with the work or goods - which is all too often the case.

Such traders often ask for cash upfront, and don't offer the entitled seven-day cancellation rights also.

Anyone experiencing problems with traders or would further advice should call the national consumer helpline - Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

To report suspicious behaviour contact Norfolk Police on 0845 4564567 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.