Rogue traders target the vulnerable and isolated in hyper-expensive driveways and home repair scams

Police have issued a rogue trader warning over men going door-to-door targeting the vulnerable and isolated.

Once commissioned, the work, if carried out all, often escalates dramatically in cost and they insist on cash.

The rogue traders even insist on frog-marching their customers to cashpoints or the Post Office to withdraw the money they say they are owed.

Cops have had reports of a number of such incidents in the south of Rushcliffe.

Police said: "We have had a number of calls regarding door-to-door traders in the Rushcliffe South area.

"The males are offering driveway and patio cleaning as well as various other home repairs.

"Although they are carrying out the work on some occasions, they are charging way over the value of what the work should cost and are mainly targeting the vulnerable and isolated.

"Following works, the price is often increased and they are then insisting on cash.

"The males are pushing to take people to ATMs /cashpoints to get payment."

Officers advise the safest way for you to get works done is by recommendation from trusted sources.

They said: "It is never right for someone to take you to a cashpoint, bank or Post Office to get money for payment.

"A legitimate trades' person will take payment via bank transfer or cheque.

"A reputable trades' person will provide you with a written quote and allow you time to think it over.

"Please take care of your neighbours, your friends and your loved ones.

"This is a crime that often leaves the most vulnerable feeling even more vulnerable and isolated, not wanting to say they have fallen foul to this kind of scam."

-If you think you are someone you know has been targeted by these kind of criminals, contact Nottinghamshire Police via 101 or 999 depending on the circumstances.