COWBOY traders and salesmen could be in for a shock after their unscrupulous practices were captured on camera in the region's very own House of Horrors.

In a similar operation to the popular TV show, trading standards chiefs uncovered a string of dishonest methods employed by workers to cheat customers.

The covert recording at a secret location in North Yorkshire found workers trying to con hundreds of pounds out of people they believed were gullible consumers.

Head of trading standards in the county, Stuart Pudney, said: "Many householders are very vulnerable when they invite salesmen into their home, or tradesmen to repair a domestic appliance.

"Consumers with little ability to check on what they are being told have to take people at face value, and it is a cause of concern that in doing so they could be ripped off."

The operation revealed:

l The supply of a three-piece suite which did not contain fire retardant foam and coverings

l Repair to a gas cooker which was unnecessary, incurring an overcharge of £72

l A fridge where a thermostat was fitted for £68, when the temperature dial had simply been turned down

l A hand-delivered pizza, which was falsely described as containing Mozzarella cheese, when in fact it contained a cheap cheese substitute

l Scampi which turned out to be reformed minced shellfish

Mr Pudney said: "This survey of salesmen and domestic repairers provided mixed results.

"It was pleasing to see that the majority of traders are highly trustworthy and offer a good, value-for-money service. However, there are a number of bad apples in the barrel.

"This service will target those unscrupulous traders who either serve consumers badly through their own incompetence, or who purposefully set out to con people.

"By doing this, we hope to protect consumers, give them confidence to trust traders, and to help the many honest and trustworthy traders and salesmen to flourish.