Officers arrested four people following a report of a suspected rogue trader incident in the Anna Valley area near Andover.

We were called at 10.11am on Wednesday 22 May to a report that an elderly couple were being overcharged for unnecessary work on their roof.

Officers attended. Two 24-year-old men and a 22-year-old man, all from London, and a 52-year-old man from Guildford, Surrey, were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and criminal damage.

They have been released on police bail with conditions while we carry out further enquiries.

We would like to take this opportunity to give some crime prevention advice around these sorts of offences.

No-one should feel pressured into committing to something they don’t want or need on their doorstep.

We would urge residents to read the following crime prevention advice and share this with any friends, neighbours and relatives – particularly if they are older or have vulnerabilities – relating to dealing with doorstep traders.

•         Discuss any work you feel needs carrying out on your property with a relative or friend who can help you find a reputable trader

•         Always check the credentials of unknown callers. Anyone selling door to door needs a pedlar’s certificate, which you can ask to see

•         Don’t agree to any work or sign anything on the spot. Do not be pressured into having any work carried out

•         Never pay cash up front and never go to the bank or cash point with a trader

•         If you suspect a rogue trader is at your door, or if you feel intimidated or they are refusing to leave, call 999

•         Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and family

You can read more details about door-to-door scams on our website here: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/door-to-door-courier-fraud/

Further consumer and business advice from Trading Standards is available here: Trading Standards | Business and economy | Hampshire County Council (hants.gov.uk)

ENDS