Warning from Thames Valley Police about rogue traders

Hazlemere Window Company Ltd received the following Community Message by email on 4th October 2011 from Thames Valley Police:

“Last week, an elderly lady in Hughenden Valley was approached at the door by someone informing her that there had been a legal dispute concerning the quality of the guttering fitted on her house. As a result of this, the caller said that they were in a position to supply and fit replacements free of charge.

The lady was already aware that her guttering was in need of some attention, so she agreed to these people coming to her house the next day to do the work. After they had started the work, she became concerned and she consulted a friend who recommended that she should speak to Trading Standards. She phoned Trading Standards and they sent someone to see her straight away.

Meanwhile, she made the workers aware of what she had done. They made an excuse of needing to collect more materials and left immediately – before Trading Standards arrived. It then became apparent that not only had they removed her guttering, but they had also removed the soffits and facia panels as well.

Fortunately, no money changed hands, but it was highly likely that some excuse for payment would have been forthcoming if they had stayed any longer. Needless to say, they never returned! Trading Standards are advising residents to be on their guard and not to deal with cold-callers. If you have any information on this incident or a similar scam or have been the victim of doorstep crime please report it to Consumer Direct on 0808 156 2259.”

If you have any information in relation to this message, please contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505 To find out more about Thames Valley Police in your area – please go to their website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk

If you have information about crime but do not want to speak to the police, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111