A WARNING to be wary of rogue traders has been reiterated after two households in Malvern were targeted.
In one incident people offering jet wash services refused to leave an 86-year-old woman’s home in Frederick Road, Malvern Link.
They caused damage to the driveway but eventually left the premises empty handed.
A spokesman from Worcestershire Regulatory Services said the woman had been ‘pretty shaken up’ by the incident.
He also confirmed another home was targeted nearby and a ‘significant amount of money’ was requested, but added no further details could be divulged at this stage due to the severity of the incident.
Andrew Wright, technical officer at WRS, said: “These people will go knocking door to door in the same street. They pick on areas where people may be vulnerable particularly where elderly people live. It is easy for them to target these areas.”
He advised residents it was better for them to contact companies in request of services rather than accept those from random cold callers.
Mr Wright urged people to refer to the trader’s register for a list of recognised and trusted businesses.
WRS first issued the warning on December 19 after a spate of similar incidents as far away as Wythall in the north of the county.
County Coun Lucy Hodgson, who represents Malvern Chase and is chair of the WRS joint committee, urged neighbours to look out for each other and report suspicious behaviour.
Anyone with information should contact West Mercia Police on 101 or the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0845 040506.
Residents can also visit www.traderregister.org.uk or call the dedicated team on 01905 765 765.
