Warning - don't be duped by rogue traders

POLICE are warning householders in Yeovil and South Somerset to be alert to rogue traders operating area after an elderly man was duped out of £2,000. 

The incident happened on Monday, August 19, when an 86-year-old Somerton man was asked for £5,500, and paid £2,000, for incomplete resurfacing work on a path at his home. 

A man had knocked on his door offering to carry out work on his drive, and agreed to repair a side path for £800. After carrying out some of the work he said the price had gone up, and the elderly man went to the bank and withdrew £2,000.

A police spokesman said: "We’ve had reports that a group of men in a white pick-up truck and a green Mitsubishi Shogun 4x4 have been touting for work in the Somerton area.

"Anyone who may have been approached by them, or has any information, is asked to contact Yeovil CID on 101."

A 31-year-old man has been arrested in Dorset and is currently being questioned in Yeovil.

The police advice to avoid becoming a victim of rogue traders or distraction burglars is:

•  If you’re not sure who’s at your door, don’t open it.
• Call a neighbour, family member or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them.
• Genuine callers will make an appointment to see you and will happily come when you have someone with you.
• To check someone’s identify, use a telephone directory – don’t use a number given by the caller as it may be bogus.
• Don’t keep large quantities of cash at home – put it in a bank or Post Office account.
• Keep your doors and windows secure at all times.
• If you suspect a bogus caller is at your door, call 999. Police would rather be called to a false alarm than not called at all.

The police spokesman added: "If in doubt - call us."

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