PEOPLE who answer their doors to strangers over the Christmas break have been urged not to let festive spirit cloud their judgement.

The Northern Echo has joined forces with police and trading standards departments in the region in an attempt to stamp out the menace of bogus doorstep callers.

However, conmen could still be prowling the North-East during the holiday and homeowners have been warned to remain on their guard.

Earlier this week, a teenager with an Irish accent was knocking on doors in Scotton, North Yorkshire, claiming he had carpets to sell. However, because he appeared to be targeting elderly residents and was only knocking on their back doors, police alerted the Neighbourhood Watch network in the area. The youth has not been seen since.

Trading standards chiefs have emphasised door-to-door traders must tell their customers that they have a right to change their mind about any product within seven days; the trader's name and address should also be included on invoices.

"Most people do not wish to appear rude to people calling at their home but pro-active action is the best solution," said the City of York Council's Matthew Boxall.

Meanwhile police have issued more details of men they want to question after an elderly woman fell victim to bogus doorstep callers.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, December 10, two men knocked on the woman's door in Helmsley, North Yorkshire, saying they were from the Water Board.

They gained entry to her house and stole money. Both were described as being in their thirties and having a Geordie accent. One was wearing a dark coat with a green jumper underneath and both were wearing gloves.

Anyone who knows anything about the incident or who knows the men is asked to ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.