POLICE joined forces with Warrington Borough Council, Trading Standards and other organisations for a day of action to combat doorstep crime in the town.
The key message to the public was: “If you’re unsure just close the door.”
Residents are urged to be alert to cold callers – people who go door to door offering unnecessary, overpriced substandard gardening or maintenance work or other goods and services.
The offenders often travel large distances in order to commit crime and evidence suggests that there are links between rogue traders and those who commit distraction burglaries.
Inspector Ian Stead said, “Many door to door sellers are genuine, however, it is important that residents check the identity of cold callers, and do not allow themselves to be pressurised into any sales they’re unsure about.
“Doorstep crime can have a devastating impact on victims both financially and emotionally. I want to reiterate that Cheshire Police do not tolerate this type of crime and we’re here for our communities when and where you need us.”
The day of action was hailed as a success, with officers stop checking suspicious individuals across borough and dealing with them in the correct way.
Cllr Judith Guthrie (pictured above), Warrington Council’s lead member for environment and public protection said: “Warrington Trading Standards has produced No Cold Calling cards that ask uninvited callers to leave without knocking. They are available at Contact Warrington on Horsemarket Street and are free to people who live in Warrington.”
Peter Astley, assistant director of regulation and protection at the council added: “We are committed to working with partner agencies such as the police to tackle rogue traders. If you think you’ve been caught out by a rogue doorstep caller please get advice from the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.”
Anyone with information about rogue traders is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, or 999 if there is a crime in progress. Alternatively information can be left anonymously via Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
Day of action against doorstep crime
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