THREE men have been arrested by trading standards officers investigation allegations of elderly people being conned into paying for gardening work.

The men, from the Darlington area, were arrested by North Yorkshire trading standards as part of Operation Rogue Trader, a national campaign to tackle doorstep crime.

They have been released on bail, pending further inquiries.

Operation Rogue Trader, an annual event, is aimed at raising awareness of doorstep crime and its impact on victims.

On average, North Yorkshire trading standards receive 260 complaints or referrals about doorstep crime incidents a year.

Councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for trading standards, said: "This week’s activities form a major part of our continuing efforts to stamp out doorstep crime in our county.

“Residents should be reassured that we are doing all we can, together with appropriate partners, to stop criminals offending in North Yorkshire and to prevent the elderly and vulnerable becoming victims of this abhorrent behaviour.

"Residents should be encouraged to report all suspicious traders to us immediately. There is no need for anyone to feel embarrassed about being defrauded by these unscrupulous traders.

“Reporting the matter may mean they play a vital role in helping us to prosecute offenders and also in preventing further consumers becoming victims of their frauds and scams."

Consumers can report incidents to via Consumer Direct, on 08454-04-05-06