POLICE in Teesdale have advised people in rural areas to be wary of door-to-door salesmen.

The advice comes after reports of two men selling power tools from a Transit-style van to farmers in Teesdale.

Acting Sergeant Mick Urwin, of Barnard Castle police, said: "Local residents, especially farmers and those in outlying rural areas, are advised to ask for a pedlar's licence from anyone selling items door to door and, if at all suspicious or concerned, to contact police.

"A description of any vehicles, such as the registration, and the persons concerned, are especially helpful in being able to locate them and verify whether they are legitimate or otherwise.

"This type of activity can be used by criminals to observe what equipment is close at hand and easily stolen - any suspicious behaviour should be reported to police as soon as possible."

Two men, one from Middlesex and the other from Cardiff, were arrested and released on police bail pending further enquiries.