Denbighshire Trading Standards are urging people to be on their guard after a man claiming to be a gardener targeted a vulnerable pensioner in Prestatyn and got away with cash.
The gentleman was approached by the man who offered to carry out various gardening works and was paid £120 in cash in advance. The pensioner went into another room in his property, but when he returned, the man had vanished with the cash and was not seen again.
The matter is being investigated by North Wales Police.
Ian Millington of Denbighshire Trading Standards said: “Whilst the majority of gardeners are legitimate and offer a good value service there are some unscrupulous individuals that will take advantage of the vulnerable and elderly people in our society. In this particular case the trader asked for cash in advance and took the opportunity to leave without carrying out the work. This has unfortunately left the elderly gentleman distressed and out of pocket.
“We would ask people to be on their guard and would always advise people to never agree to any work where the trader turns up uninvited or to pay for work in advance. Any legitimate traders will provide you with written quotations and paperwork telling you who they are and where they are from. Any contract you enter into in your home with the trader present also gives you the legal right to a seven day cooling off period, so you can change your mind.”
Sergeant Ceri Hawe said that they were also urging residents to be extra vigilant and on the look out for any suspicious persons in the area.
She said: “Our Local Policing Team are carrying out high visibility patrols in Prestatyn and will be offering target hardening advice.
“Please report any suspicious persons to NWP control room and our advice is not to let people you don’t know into your home and never leave them unattended.”
Stay safe in your own home with this three step plan
One: If in doubt, keep them out. It sounds simple, but if you don’t let someone in – they will go away. Don’t let them pressure you into opening the door.
Two: Be prepared. Be in control. Think about what to say to doorstep cold callers in advance. Keep a list of key contact numbers near your phone so you can check out legitimate callers. Tell all other unwanted callers to go away.
Three: Call a neighbour or the police. Contact a local relative or nominated neighbour who can help verify a cold caller. If you think someone is a rogue trader call us on 101. To report a distraction burglar or rogue trader who has taken your money and is still in the area – call 999.
Remember genuine callers will not mind waiting. It’s your home. You don’t have to let anyone in.
The Citizens Advice consumer service provides free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues. Visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06.
