Frozen fish are being sold in huge quantities. Pic: Anthony Theobald

Fish sellers are operating on the outskirts of Preston and leaving elderly people with freezers full of fish.

Lancashire County Council’s trading standards department have put out a warning about traders from the North East selling door to door in Elswick and the surrounding area.

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Householders open the door to be presented with a few pieces but after saying yes get presented with quantities which could fill a freezer.

Many have been pressured into handing over large amounts of cash, up to £400 in some cases.

County Councillor Janice Hanson, cabinet member for public protection, said: “The best place to buy fish is from a reputable fishmonger at an established shop or stall or from a regular roundsman. You are taking a risk by buying on the doorstep from an unknown trader as this fish may be of poor quality or be unfit to eat.

“Several elderly consumers in Lancashire have been misled into thinking they are buying a few pounds worth of fish, then feel pressurised into having to pay an enormous bill and accept more fish than their freezers can take. We would advise residents never to deal with cold-callers on their doorstep.”

Anyone with concerns about doorstep callers in their area should call Consumer Direct on 03454 04 05 06.