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Police and councils team up to tackle Leicestershire's cold-calling rogue traders

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A campaign has been launched to help people protect themselves from cold-calling rogue traders. Organisations including Leicestershire police, Leicestershire County Council and Age UK are urging people – particularly the elderly – to say no to doorstep traders who offer to carry out odd jobs. Many turn out to be con artists who charge huge fees for shoddy and often unnecessary work. Burglars also pose as traders to trick their way into their victims' homes. Police officers and trading standards officials at the county council are now delivering information leaflets to people they believe could be at risk. The message is also being passed on the through the county's meals on wheels service. The campaign was launched today to mark the beginning of National Rogue Trader Week. David Bull, head of the county council's trading standards service, said: "Rogue traders are unscrupulous and intimidating individuals, who prey on the vulnerable and think nothing of conning people out of their cash. "We always urge people to be extremely cautious about buying goods and services on their doorstep. "If in doubt they should keep their doors closed and the stranger out." Detective Chief Inspector Richard Ward, who is leading Leicestershire police's campaign against burglary, said: "As we are entering warmer, sunnier months it's important to be aware of both the front and the rear of your property when opening the door. "Always close the rear doors and windows of your property when answering the front door to unfamiliar callers. "Whilst the majority of doorstep trades people are genuine and act ethically and within the law, it is our duty to protect the vulnerable from the small number of individuals who act with a lack of integrity. "Our core role of protecting our communities is supported by the cooperation of local people who help to identify and give evidence against unscrupulous traders." "We'd urge members of the public to tell us about anything they may deem concerning, to look out for their neighbours and to be empowered to challenge and to turn away doorstep traders." Anthony Donovan, executive director of Age UK Leicester Shire and Rutland, said the charity was "delighted" to support the campaign. Mr Donovan said: "The charity will always assist in trying to protect the more vulnerable members of our community." Information about rogue traders can be passed to Leicestershire Police by calling 101, or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous. Alternatively, email: telltradingstandards@leics.gov.uk

Police and councils team up to tackle Leicestershire's cold-calling rogue traders


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