Warning as dodgy door-to-door sellers operating in Samlesbury

Tea towels are among the items being offered for sale but Trading Standards say they are poor quality

Households in Samlesbury are being warned about doorstep sellers.

Underhand sales tactics are being used according to Trading Standards.

Lancashire County Council has issued the warning after reports of door-to-door sellers trying to sell household goods including tea towels, dish cloths and gardening gloves.

A spokesman for the county council said: “The sellers tell people they have been referred by their local Social Services, or that the money raised goes to a good or charitable cause, none of which are true.

“The quality of the goods is poor and they are being sold at inflated prices.”

Reports have also come in of cold-callers offering to repave driveways or carry out treatments to eradicate weeds including jet washing. These reports are across all of Lancashire.

The work is often completed to a poor standard and weeds grow back quickly.

Cabinet member Albert Atkinson who has responsibility for trading standards said: “Scams come in all forms and anyone can become a victim.

“We all need to be particularly vigilant when people come cold calling door-to-door.

“You should always use a door chain, check ID badges and say a polite ‘no’ when people try to sell you something on the doorstep.

“You should never buy anything on impulse and always take the time to find a reputable tradesperson by using programmes such as our Lancashire Safe Trader scheme.

“If you want to report a scam or need any help or advice, contact our Trading Standards team who will be happy to help.”

How to keep yourself safe

Use the Safe Trader scheme to source reliable and vetted traders.

You can contact the Trading Standards scheme via the Citizen’s Advice helpline on 03454040506.

You can report a scam to Action Fraud by visiting the Action Fraud website or calling 03001232040.