KINGSBRIDGE police are warning residents to be cautious of rogue traders after an incident was reported in the area.

Officers responded to a call from a member of the public reporting that a male had offered 'in a persistent and aggressive manner' to do maintenance work at an address in the town.

Police conducted a stop check on the man and, with Trading Standards, were able to establish that he was using illegal paperwork, breaking consumer protection legislation.

The man was issued with a warning notice regarding how he operates and all his paperwork was seized.

Kingsbridge police are now working closely with officers from trading standards to tackle rogue traders operating in the vicinity and thanks to the report received, were able to take swift action before the man could start work at any properties in the town.

However, the police say there have been other rogue traders at work in the Kingsbridge and Salcombe areas.

PC Rachel Ward said: 'The rule of thumb is don't do any business with people who cold call you at home. Don't be persuaded that you need to have the work done straight away. If a caller will not take no for an answer call 999.

'Always get three quotes from different traders and contact the Buy with Confidence list of traders on the Devon County Council website.

'Remember that you are entitled to a seven-day cooling off period and signing to waive this right is only legitimate in an emergency such as the roof blowing off.'

Householders have been persuaded to have work carried out that is over-priced, sometimes unnecessary and often of a poor standard.

A verbal quote is given and once work commences other supposed problems are discovered that 'require immediate attention'.

The householder is then conned into parting with thousands of pounds.

If a member of the public encounters a cold caller offering urgent maintenance work, they are advised to take note of the his appearance, vehicle and vehicle registration number.

If you have had any work done to your roof, guttering, fascias or wall coverings within the last month by a cold caller, contact PC 6805 Rachel Ward on telephone 101, email [email protected]">[email protected] or call Trading Standards on 01392 386724.