TRADING standards officers are investigating allegations that a woman claiming to be a fortune teller may have been duping elderly people out of money.

The woman, in her fifties, from Darlington, is alleged to have visited a 78-year-old man at his home in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, to tell his fortune. She kept him talking for an hour before asking for £640.

The pensioner paid her with a cheque, but cancelled it the next day after having second thoughts.

Karen Ward, of North Yorkshire trading standards, said: "We are investigating the fact that this lady was cold calling at the home of an elderly gentleman and he agreed to pay over a large sum of money. We are looking at offences in relation to that."

She said the woman had been identified and would be interviewed shortly.

The woman faces a charge of failing to give notice in writing that the customer had seven days to change his mind.

Cold callers must provide such a notice for any contract worth more than £35.

Ms Ward said another pensioner complained to police about a similar incident but would not give a statement.

If residents are offered goods or services at their doors, they are urged to call 0845 330 3313.

Last year, The Northern Echo launched Doorstoppers, a campaign backed by trading standards that aimed to stop doorstep conmen. It has won widespread support, and in July the Government confirmed it was to crack down on door-to-door salespeople.