Durham Police have issued a warning to homeowners in parts of County Durham after numerous reports of a 'persistent' doorstep seller asking for money and items from residents.
Over the last six weeks, the police force say that a young male has been going door-to-door in the Sherburn Road and Gilesgate areas of Durham City - asking for money to complete work and pleading hardship.
After noting that several residents have engaged with the seller, police officers have issued the warning of 'do not engage with this male or provide him with any money or items he could sell".
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A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "We have seen an increase in the number of calls regarding door-to-door sellers in the area.
"However, our advice is simple. We advise residents not to answer the door to anybody selling household items.
"If you have a peephole in your front door or a window you can look out of without opening the door, this will enable you to see who is at your door without opening it and engaging with them in the first instance."
Adding to their advice, the police say that if you do open the door to them, people are asked to say ‘NO’ firmly but politely and close the door.
The spokesperson added: "By not answering the door or closing it immediately after saying 'no' this reduces the risk of any verbal abuse they may potentially give to residents.
"Don’t feel embarrassed about turning someone away, don’t feel pressured, don’t agree to sign a contract or hand over money at the door.
"The scam we have seen recently in the area are people cold-calling residents whilst posing as ex-offenders going door to door selling items as part of a probation service scheme.
"Durham Constabulary neither run or are involved in any such scheme and they are just selling overpriced goods for a profit."
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