TRADING standards officers in Hartlepool are warning residents to be on their guard against bogus callers.

Officers say the callers knock on people's doors to sell them something they don't want, or carry out repairs that are not necessary.

Senior trading standards officer Malcolm Graham said bogus callers were causingmisery and distress.

He said: "I advise not to let a cold-calling stranger into or on to your property. If, for example, you let someone on to your roof there is a good chance that the person will damage it themselves and then say that it needs repairing."

He said residents should not let callers into their homes if they were suspicious, not allow sellers to push them into making a snap decision, and shop around before agreeing on a price.

He also warns people to be wary of callers who try to buy goods, such as antiques, especially where there has been a family bereavement, in case they attempt to pay small amounts for valuable items.

A leaflet called Doorstop Selling, which warns people of the dangers of bogus callers, can be obtained from the Consumer Advice Centre, at 1 Victoria Road, Hartlepool.