I have had reports of continuing Doorstep crime in the wider Northwich area.

Last week 3 Distraction/Bogus type callers all targeted very elderly folk in our communities.

Neighbours can make a difference if they give their phone number to their next door elderly neighbour, in case someone they don't know knocks unexpectedly. The extra support that the appearance of a neighbour can give can stop this in its tracks. IF YOU LIVE NEXT DOOR TO A VERY ELDERLY PERSON PLEASE BE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR AND SHARE YOUR PHONE NUMBER WITH THEM IN CASE OF EMERGENCY.

Also - DON'T put bags out for 'Clothing Collectors' - give your local charity shop the support. Its a bit more trouble to take it into the shop but there's no surety your unwanted items will end up benefiting a charity. Unless of course the bag/leaflet is clearly marked with a recognised charity and their registration number.

Some residents in the Davenham area have reported males cold calling selling dusters and other household items. - The advice is SAY NO THANK YOU.

REMEMBER EVEN IF YOU HAVE AGREED TO WORK ON YOUR HOME, AND THE WORK HAS STARTED - IF YOU START TO FEEL UNHAPPY ABOUT THE TRADER, YOU CAN CALL TRADING STANDARDS FOR ADVICE - BEFORE YOU PAY UP! - 0845 11 32 500

Best wishes LIZ BIDDLE, HOME WATCH OFFICER - 01244 614291- NORTHWICH POLICE STATION

ALL INCIDENTS (AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION) SHOULD BE REPORTED TO THE MAIN CALL CENTRE : 0845 458 0000 or 01606 48000

The police received a report this afternoon of 2 males who knocked at a door in the Mount Pleasant area of Davenham, trying 'Sell Something'. They may have been carrying a large holdall and another bag. Trading Standards advise you not to buy from the door. It is unlikely that Traders at the door hold the appropriate trading license. Please warn elderly friends and relatives NOT TO BUY and to be on their guard. Be on the lookout for Suspicious people or vehicles parking and walking around residential properties.

If you see Suspicious Vehicles or People you can report it to Cheshire Constabulary - 0845 458 0000 If you wish to ask a question about 'trading at your door' you can call Trading Standards - 0845 11 32 500

Regards

Liz Biddle, HomeWatch Officer - VR, Northwich Police Station PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT UNIT Tel:01244 614291 - TO REPORT A SUSPICIOUS PERSON OR VEHICLE CALL 0845 458 0000

The telephone call is followed up with a high pressure sales visit with the aim of getting a contract signed and securing a large deposit, as much as half of the total price of the work.

The trader does give the required written notice of cancellation rights but many complaints have been made to Trading Standards about failure to refund deposits when the householder has cancelled within the seven days allowed.

The sums of money involved range from several hundred pounds up to ?1500.

This trader is being actively pursued by Trading Standards. In the meantime householders are urged to be on their guard against traders who cold call in this manner offering inducements to have work done on their home.