Another warning to be wary of cold callers offering to make repairs or perform gardening services. In August men called at a property in Downend claiming they were from the Council and needed to cut down some trees that were growing over the payment. They also said that the resident would be taken to court if the work wasn’t carried out and charged them £400. They then went next door, told them that the first victim had sent them and charged them £220.

Offenders can be threatening and pressure victims into agreeing to work. They may increase the price after work has started and take their victims to a cashpoint or bank to get the cash.

The police advise you to only use recognised traders or someone that has been recommended to you by a trusted source. Always get a written quote with a legitimate business address and never pay in cash.